Safety of vinyl music records

To assess the condition of vinyl records, we use a system close to the Record Collector rating system. In it, plates and envelopes are evaluated on a six-point scale using abbreviated letter designations. They will help you understand the condition of the product.

Vinyl music records conditions assessment

• Mint (M) — the record and the envelope have no traces of use and wear, the record sounds and looks “like new” and has no visible defects. The designation “Mint” can be obtained by factory-sealed records, records that have never been played or played once.
• Excellent (EX) — the plate and envelope are in excellent condition and have minimal signs of wear. There may be small surface scratches on the record, but there is no damage affecting the sound quality. The envelope may have minor scuffs or fractures. Such records were most likely played several times in compliance with all the rules and precautions.
• Very Good (VG) — the record and the envelope are in very good condition. The record has obviously been played many times, and there are visible scuffs and scratches on it, which can cause surface noise, but do not lead to a strong deterioration in sound quality. There are small scuffs or creases on the envelope, as well as defects at the corners and bends, but there are no breaks.
• Good (G) — the record and the envelope are in good condition. The record was played many times, and this significantly affected the sound quality. When playing, noises, clicks or distortions are clearly audible, deep, long scratches may be present on the surface. There are noticeable bends, tears or damaged edges on the envelope.
• Fair (F) — the record and the envelope are in mediocre condition. The record can still be played, but the sound quality is noticeably reduced, strong noises and distortions are possible. The envelope is torn, stained or has other noticeable damage and traces of storage.
• Bad (B) — the record and the envelope are in poor condition. The record is unusable or even broken. The envelope is severely damaged or partially lost.