Our grading for used records is based on the UK Record Collector Magazine’s system.  It’s what we have used for decades.  We visually inspect our records and try to grade our records one notch below what we believe they are.  We also try to note anything we feel might be important to our customers (e.g. any tears or cover blemishes).  We’re not perfect, and all grading systems are somewhat subjective, but we try hard.  If you feel you bought a record that does not meet the grading we have allocated, feel free to return it.

MINT (M): The record itself is in brand new condition with no surface marks or deterioration in sound quality. The cover and any extra items such as the lyric sheet, booklet or poster are in perfect condition. Records advertised as Sealed or Unplayed should be Mint.  M- means near mint.

EXCELLENT (EX): The record shows some signs of having been played, but there is very little lessening in sound quality. The cover and packaging might have slight wear and / or creasing.  You should feel confident that any record with an Ex grading is in great condition. We use Ex+ and Ex- also.

VERY GOOD (VG): The record has obviously been played many times, but displays no major deterioration in sound quality, despite noticeable surface marks and the occasional light scratch. Normal wear and tear on the cover or extra items, without any major defects, is acceptable. We use VG+ and VG- also.

If a record falls below Very Good, we will always try to list why rather than using common gradings such as Fair and Poor.

Some common terms/words we use…

OBI: This is the thin paper band that most Japanese (and some other) LPs have around the cover.

RINGWEAR: This is marks on covers caused by the record inside.  Usually when records aren’t stored in sleeves and rub against other records.

FOXING: Paper deterioration/speckling.  Can be caused by humidity or the chemicals in the paper and/or glue.