How do we grade, look after and package our records?

We follow a similar grading standard to identify the condition of our records, as used by the likes of Discogs. Please see below.

However like with most things in life, things are open to interpretation - please bear that in mind. It is why it is highly unlikely we will use the terms ‘mint’ or ‘near mint’. Although there may be the odd exception, as a rule we will grade on the conservative side and give specific details or highlight anything that stands out in the description and photographs where possible.

In almost all cases with our pre-loved vinyl, we clean the records and sleeves. We will give a wet clean with a microfibre cloth to the wax, and if needed we will use an ultrasonic cleaner to gently get into those grooves and preserve the condition. Sleeves are often given a clean - deodarised and freshened up and dried. On occasion we will reinforce sleeves and fix anything that has the potential to worsen over time (if possible).

All records (where appropriate) priced £10 and higher (and within our pop-ups and shop most records over £1) will be re-sleeved, often with a high quality, low density polyethylene outer-sleeve for maximum protection. for 12” records new Inner sleeve’s will be provided, with any original/existing ones left within the main sleeve, and the new one containing the record itself placed to the back of the original cardboard sleeve, within the new outer sleeve. This is great for posting to better protect the cardboard sleeve during transit. It is also how we store all our vinyl as it allows easy access to the record and reduces wear and tear on the cardboard sleeve by pulling the record in and out. You course can maintain this or change to how suits your style.

If ordering online all our records will be packed with care - in appropriate cardboard sleeves.

Grading guide:

New

A brand new album - often still in shrink wrap but not always. And sometimes play tested and upgraded with an outer-sleeve and inner sleeve if appropriate, as noted above.

Mint (M)

Absolutely perfect in every way. Certainly never been played, possibly even still sealed. Should be used sparingly as a grade, if at all.  

Near Mint (NM or M-)

A nearly perfect record. A NM or M- record has more than likely never been played, and the vinyl will play perfectly, with no imperfections during playback. Many dealers won't give a grade higher than this implying (perhaps correctly) that no record is ever truly perfect. The record should show no obvious signs of wear. A 45 RPM or EP sleeve should have no more than the most minor defects, such as any sign of slight handling. An LP cover should have no creases, folds, seam splits, cut-out holes, or other noticeable similar defects. The same should be true of any other inserts, such as posters, lyric sleeves, etc.  

Very Good Plus (VG+) 

A Very Good Plus record will show some signs that it was played and otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of it. Defects should be more of a cosmetic nature, not affecting the actual playback as a whole. Record surfaces may show some signs of wear and may have slight scuffs or very light scratches that don't affect the listening experiences. Slight warps that do not affect the sound are "OK". The label may have some ring wear or discolouration. Spindle marks may be present. Picture sleeves and inner sleeves will have some slight wear, slightly turned-up corners, or a slight seam split. An LP cover may have slight signs of wear, and may be marred by a cut-out hole, indentation, or cut corner. In general, if not for a couple of minor things wrong with it, this would be Near Mint.   

Very Good (VG) 

Many of the defects found in a VG+ record will be more pronounced in a VG disc. Surface noise will be evident upon playing, especially in soft passages and during a song's intro and fade, but will not overpower the music otherwise. Groove wear will start to be noticeable, as with light scratches (deep enough to feel with a fingernail) that will affect the sound. Labels may be marred by writing, or have tape or stickers (or their residue) attached. The same will be true of picture sleeves or LP covers. However, it will not have all of these problems at the same time.

Good (G), Good Plus (G+) 

A record in Good or Good Plus condition can be played through without skipping. But it will have significant surface noise, scratches, and visible groove wear. A cover or sleeve will have seam splits, especially at the bottom or on the spine. Tape, writing, ring wear, or other defects will be present. While the record will be playable without skipping, noticeable surface noise and "ticks" will almost certainly accompany the playback.  

Poor (P), Fair (F)

The record is cracked, badly warped, and won't play through without skipping or repeating. The picture sleeve is water damaged, split on all three seams and heavily marred by wear and writing. The LP cover barely keeps the LP inside it. Inner sleeves are fully split, crinkled, and written upon.  

It is very doubtful we would stock any records like this - however there could be the odd exception. Maybe the record itself is of better quality but the sleeve is P or F.

Generic

Within the context of grading items, the term "generic" refers to a type of sleeve that is not specific to the release. A generic sleeve is either a plain sleeve or a company sleeve with standard company artwork. A sleeve that is graded as "generic" needs no further grading, as a generic sleeve generally adds little value to the item and can be easily replaced.