Why condition matters
Condition is one of the biggest factors in how a record sounds and what it can sell for. Two copies of the same pressing can be priced very differently if one is clean and the other is scratched and worn. Condition also tells you what to expect when you drop the needle: a well-kept record should play quietly, while a heavily worn one may have audible crackle or skipping.
If you are trying to work out whether a record is collectable, condition is only part of the picture. Our overview of sought after vinyl records covers other factors such as rarity and demand.
The Goldmine grading scale
Most sellers use the Goldmine standard, which Discogs also uses for its marketplace. Here is a simplified summary of how the grades are generally described.
| Grade | Typical meaning |
|---|---|
| Mint (M) | Perfect in every way, usually unplayed and often still sealed. Many sellers use it sparingly or not at all. |
| Near Mint (NM or M-) | Nearly perfect. No obvious signs of wear, and it should play without imperfections. |
| Very Good Plus (VG+) | Shows some signs of having been played but was clearly well cared for. Flaws are mostly cosmetic. |
| Very Good (VG) | Noticeable wear such as surface marks and some surface noise, but still enjoyable to play. |
| Good (G) / Good Plus (G+) | Heavily worn. It plays, but with significant noise, and the sleeve may be damaged. |
| Poor (P) / Fair (F) | Badly damaged. Likely to skip or be unplayable. |
Exact wording varies by source, so always read a seller’s own description alongside the grade.
What do VG and VG+ mean?
VG+ (Very Good Plus) is the grade you will see most often on good used records. It generally describes a record that has been played but looked after, with light marks that should not noticeably affect listening. The label might show slight ring wear, and the sleeve may have minor corner or seam wear. A common way to put it: it would be Near Mint if not for a couple of small things.
VG (Very Good) describes a record with more obvious wear. You will probably see scuffs or light scratches and may hear surface noise, especially in quiet passages. It remains listenable, and many collectors accept VG copies of records that are otherwise hard to find or expensive.
Lower grades generally sell for less than higher ones, but the size of the gap depends on the record and the market, so avoid assuming a fixed percentage.
How to inspect a record
- Use good light. Tilt the disc under a single bright light source and look along the grooves rather than straight down at them.
- Check for scratches. Light hairline marks are common. Deep scratches you can feel with a fingernail are more concerning.
- Look at the label and spindle hole. Ring wear, writing or an enlarged hole can all lower the grade.
- Check for warps. Hold the record at eye level and rotate it, or lay it flat and look for rocking. Slight warps may play fine, but a severe warp can make the needle bounce.
- Listen, if you can. Play a track or two near the start and end of a side. Visual grades do not always match sound.
- Examine the sleeve and inserts. Look for creases, ring wear (a circular worn patch where the disc has rubbed), seam splits, stains, writing and missing inner sleeves or posters.
Media grade versus sleeve grade
Sellers often give two grades, for example “VG+/NM”. The first usually refers to the record (media) and the second to the sleeve, though some sellers reverse this, so check the listing. A great-looking sleeve with a worn record, or the opposite, can change what you are willing to pay.
Common problems and what they mean
- Surface noise or crackle: can come from dust, static or groove wear. Cleaning may help if dirt is the cause.
- Scuffs: light marks that look dull on the surface and may or may not be audible.
- Ring wear: a circular pattern on the sleeve where the record has rubbed against it over time.
- Seam splits: a sleeve edge that has started to come apart.
- Warp: a bend in the disc, sometimes caused by poor storage or heat.
Tips for buying and selling
- When selling, grade conservatively and describe any flaws. Honest listings tend to prevent disputes.
- When buying, ask for photos or a playback description if the listing is vague.
- Be aware that sealed does not guarantee Mint: the record inside may still have flaws.
- Compare grades with prices, not just titles. A cheap copy may be cheap for a reason.
- If you are building a collection to listen to, a clean VG+ copy of a great album often offers good value. See our picks of the best albums on vinyl for ideas.