📀 Music Media Grading
General Rules
-
Our grading is based on the internationally recognized “Gold Standard”, with some small differences.
-
We grade visually only and do not take responsibility for hidden sound defects.
-
If explicitly requested, we may perform a sound test (if technically possible). After informing the client of the actual condition, the responsibility for sound quality passes to us.
-
Older records and CDs must be understood as decades-old products, and cannot be graded as “new.”
-
We do not grade new releases.
Important Notes
-
Each product’s condition is indicated on its page. If necessary, an additional note is added.
-
Sound quality (especially for vinyl) depends on both the medium’s condition and the original recording.
-
Old releases from the 1950s–1960s may have artifacts even if they look unplayed, due to recording technology or studio quality.
-
We do not play-test the items we sell and cannot guarantee their sound characteristics.
-
In 90% of cases, hidden sound issues are caused by deep contamination accumulated with age. Professional cleaning usually solves this.
🟢 Factory Sealed
-
We do not grade factory-sealed records or CDs.
-
We cannot be held responsible for sound quality, recording quality, or the medium’s condition.
-
Factory-sealed old items may still contain defects or sound problems unknown to us.
-
The client assumes full responsibility for such purchases.
🟢 M | Mint
Vinyl:
-
No signs of use.
-
No evidence it has been played, but we cannot guarantee that.
Sleeve/Inserts:
-
Look like new, but are not new.
-
Very light storage marks may exist.
-
In rare cases, slight signs of age (especially in 50–60-year-old editions).
CD:
-
No signs of play.
-
Case shows no scratches. Disc may be sealed, but factory sealing cannot be guaranteed.
-
Inserts are clean, though old editions may show light age marks inside.
🟢 NM | Near Mint
Vinyl:
-
Almost perfect, very light traces only.
-
If played, it has been played very little.
-
No signs of heavy use around the center hole.
-
Light marks may exist from handling, not from actual play.
-
Any flaw likely occurred during packing or removal from the inner sleeve.
Sleeve:
-
Almost perfect, minimal signs of wear or age.
CD:
-
No visible problems, scratches, or scuffs.
-
Plays perfectly, with possible very light handling marks.
Sleeve:
-
Almost perfect, minimal signs of wear or aging.
🟡 VG+
Vinyl:
-
Excellent condition, with light surface scratches.
-
These should not affect playback.
Sleeve:
-
Looks almost perfect.
-
May have bent corners, light edge wear, or a sticker.
-
Excessive wear or torn edges are not acceptable.
CD:
-
May have light scratches or handling traces.
-
Playback should not be affected.
🟡 VG | Very Good
Vinyl:
-
May have light crackle or noise, but never louder than the music.
-
Shows heavier scratches from extended use.
Sleeve:
-
Normal signs of wear (ring wear, splits).
-
Edges may be partially torn or repaired with tape.
-
Unusual damages are described in the notes.
CD:
-
Visible deeper scratches from long-term use or improper handling.
🟠 G | Good
Vinyl:
-
Constant, low-level noise.
-
Still enjoyable to listen to.
Sleeve:
-
Heavily worn, but not torn apart.
CD:
-
May skip one track.
🔴 F | Fair
Vinyl:
-
Noticeable noise throughout.
-
Heavy scratches, possible skipping.
Sleeve:
-
May be torn, taped, or written on.
🔴 P | Poor
Vinyl:
-
Only one or two songs play correctly.
Sleeve:
-
Badly damaged – torn, taped, or written on.
CD:
-
Several songs may skip.