Understanding Vinyl Record Grading: Mint to Poor, Explained Simply
Record grading exists to answer one simple question: What should I realistically expect this record to look and sound like?
For new collectors, grading can feel confusing or inconsistent. Terms like Mint, VG+, or Good often mean different things depending on who’s selling the record. At GOOD TASTE Records, accurate grading is essential — not just for pricing, but for trust.
Understanding record grading helps you buy smarter, avoid disappointment, and build a collection you actually enjoy listening to.
Quick Answer: What Record Grading Means
Record grading is a standardized way to describe the physical condition and playback quality of a vinyl record and its jacket. Grades range from Mint (M) to Poor (P), with each level indicating expected wear, sound quality, and value.
Why Record Grading Matters
Grading affects:
- Sound quality expectations
- Visual condition
- Pricing and value
- Long-term collectability
A properly graded record sets clear expectations. A poorly graded one leads to frustration — even if the music itself is great.
The Standard Vinyl Grading Scale
Most reputable record stores and marketplaces use variations of the Goldmine Grading Standard. Below is a simplified, practical breakdown.
Mint (M)
What it means:
- Record is perfectly clean, unplayed, and flawless
- Jacket has no wear, bends, or defects
Reality check:
True Mint records are extremely rare. Most sealed records are not truly Mint due to manufacturing and handling variables.
Near Mint (NM or NM-)
What it means:
- Record has been played very few times
- No audible surface noise
- No visible scratches or wear
- Jacket is nearly perfect
This is the highest realistic grade most collectors should expect.
Very Good Plus (VG+)
What it means:
- Light signs of use
- Minor surface marks that do not affect playback
- Occasional light noise between tracks
- Jacket may show slight shelf wear
VG+ is often the best balance of price, sound, and condition for most buyers.
Very Good (VG)
What it means:
- Visible wear and light scratches
- Audible surface noise, especially between tracks
- No skipping
- Jacket shows noticeable wear or seam splits
VG records are still playable, but condition and noise should be expected.
Good (G) / Good Plus (G+)
What it means:
- Heavy wear and frequent noise
- Possible distortion
- Jacket may be heavily worn or damaged
Despite the name, Good is not good in collector terms. These copies are typically budget placeholders.
Poor (P) / Fair (F)
What it means:
- Severe damage
- Heavy noise, skips, or warping
- Jacket may be water-damaged or missing
These are usually suitable only for display or archival purposes.
Grading the Record vs the Jacket
Records are graded separately from jackets.
Example:
- Record: VG+
- Jacket: VG
Both grades matter. A clean record in a damaged jacket may still sound great but have reduced resale value.
Visual vs Play Grading
Some sellers grade by sight only. Others grade by playback.
- Visual grading: Faster, less precise
- Play grading: More accurate, more time-consuming
At GOOD TASTE Records, used vinyl is visually inspected, cleaned, and play-graded when necessary to ensure accuracy.
Why Grading Can Feel Inconsistent Online
Grading issues usually come from:
- Overgrading to increase price
- Different personal standards
- Lack of cleaning before inspection
Buying from a trusted shop with transparent grading practices matters more than chasing “perfect” grades.
How GOOD TASTE Records Handles Grading
At GOOD TASTE Records, grading is conservative and honest. We would rather undergrade a record than overpromise. All used records are cleaned, inspected, and priced according to condition — not hype.
Our goal is simple: when you play the record, it should meet or exceed expectations.
FAQs
Is VG+ good enough for listening?
Yes. VG+ records usually sound excellent on a properly set up turntable.
Are sealed records automatically Mint?
No. Sealed records can still have pressing defects or jacket issues.
Does cleaning improve a grade?
Cleaning can improve playback but does not change physical wear.
Vinyl Record Grading Cheat Sheet
| Grade | Abbreviation | Playback Expectation | Visual Condition | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mint | M | Perfect, unplayed | Absolutely flawless | Archival copies (extremely rare) |
| Near Mint | NM / NM- | Near-perfect, no audible noise | Almost no visible wear | Collectors and critical listeners |
| Very Good Plus | VG+ | Excellent with minimal surface noise | Light marks, well cared for | Most buyers (best balance of quality and value) |
| Very Good | VG | Noticeable surface noise, no skipping | Visible wear and scuffs | Budget-conscious listeners |
| Good / Good Plus | G / G+ | Heavy noise, distortion possible | Heavy wear, jacket damage likely | Placeholder copies |
| Poor / Fair | P / F | Skips, warps, or severe noise | Significant damage | Display or archival use only |
Record grading isn’t about perfection — it’s about honesty and expectations. Understanding grading terms empowers you to buy confidently, avoid disappointment, and focus on what matters most: enjoying the music.
At GOOD TASTE Records, grading is a trust signal — and we take it seriously.
