What does VG+ mean for vinyl records?

VG+ stands for Very Good Plus and is a grade on the Goldmine scale. A VG+ record shows visible signs of play and handling, with some wear visible on the cover. However, it still sounds excellent with only minimal surface noise. VG+ records are excellent for listening and represent a great balance between condition and price.

Is Very Good vinyl worth buying?

Yes, Very Good (VG) records are absolutely worth buying if you're buying to listen. A VG record shows noticeable wear, and you may hear some surface noise, especially on quiet passages. However, for casual listening, VG records are fully playable and enjoyable. If you're a serious collector or sound engineer, you might prefer VG+ or better.

What's the difference between Near Mint and Mint vinyl?

Mint (M) means the record is unplayed, still in shrink wrap (if original), with no visible signs of handling. Near Mint (NM or M-) shows minimal signs of play or handling, perhaps light hairline marks or slight handling marks, but still sounds and looks nearly perfect. Mint is rarer and commands higher prices, while Near Mint is a great sweet spot.

Do vinyl grades affect sound quality?

Yes, condition directly affects sound quality. Mint and Near Mint records sound pristine with no surface noise. VG+ records sound excellent with minimal noise. VG records may have noticeable surface noise, especially on quieter passages. Good (G) records are listenable but show heavy wear and audible noise. When buying, choose a grade appropriate for how you'll listen.

How do I know if a used vinyl record is good quality?

Check the condition grade and photos. Look at the vinyl surface, is it shiny and clean or dull and scratched? Check the cover artwork, is it intact and bright or faded and worn? Listen to audio samples if available. Read detailed condition descriptions. For mail order, choose sellers with good return policies. In person, inspect under light before buying.

Inspecting vinyl record condition and grading

Understanding Quality

Vinyl Record Grading Guide

Understanding vinyl record grading is essential whether you're a casual listener, serious collector, or DJ. Grades tell you exactly what to expect: how the record sounds, what condition it's in, and whether it's worth the price. The standard used worldwide is the Goldmine scale, which has been the industry standard for decades.

This guide breaks down each grade, explains what record and sleeve grades mean separately, and helps you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn what each grade sounds like, what condition to buy for your needs, and how to inspect records yourself.

The Goldmine Grading Scale

The Goldmine scale has five main grades. Each describes the condition of both the vinyl record and its cover or sleeve.

Mint (M)

Unplayed vinyl, still in shrink wrap if original. No visible signs of handling, storage wear, or play. Record is perfect, cover is pristine with no sealing creases or edge wear. Sounds absolutely flawless with zero surface noise. Mint records are extremely rare and command premium prices.

Near Mint (NM or M-)

Minimal signs of play or handling. Vinyl may have light hairline marks under strong light, but no visible scratches. Cover shows slight wear from handling or storage, perhaps light creasing or edge wear. Sounds like new with no audible surface noise. Near Mint is the sweet spot for most collectors.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

Obvious signs of play and handling. Vinyl may show light scratches and scuffs visible under bright light. Cover shows visible wear, seam splitting, or edge damage. Sounds excellent despite minor surface noise on quiet passages. VG+ is ideal for listeners who care about quality but not collector's condition.

Very Good (VG)

Visible wear on both vinyl and cover. Vinyl shows obvious scratches and scuffs, surface noise is noticeable especially on quieter passages. Cover is worn, faded, or damaged. Still fully playable and enjoyable for casual listening. Good value for collectors building affordable collections.

Good (G)

Heavy wear throughout. Vinyl is noticeably scratched and scuffed, may have significant surface noise. Cover is heavily creased, marked, or torn. Still listenable, but quality is compromised. Typically only worthwhile if the album is rare or hard to find elsewhere.

Record vs. Sleeve Grading

Records and sleeves are always graded separately. You might find a "Near Mint record with a Very Good sleeve", and that's perfectly normal and actually common. The vinyl (the record itself) and the cover (the sleeve) can have very different wear patterns.

Record Grade

Describes the vinyl itself. A high record grade means it sounds great and plays cleanly. This is what matters most for listening. A well-maintained record with a worn cover can still be an excellent purchase.

Sleeve Grade

Describes the cover, jacket, and artwork. This matters for display, collection value, and aesthetics. Some collectors prioritise sleeve condition; casual listeners may care less. A great record in a worn sleeve can be a bargain.

When shopping, read both grades carefully. Don't be put off by a worn sleeve if the record is in excellent condition, you're paying primarily for the music, not the cover.

What Grade Should I Buy?

The best grade for you depends on your intended use and budget. Here's how to choose.

Casual Listeners

If you're buying vinyl to enjoy and play regularly, VG+ or VG records are perfect. They sound great and cost less than NM. You get all the music you love without paying for collector-grade condition.

Buy: VG+ or VG

Serious Collectors

If you're building a valuable collection, Near Mint or Mint condition is worth the premium. These records hold value, sound pristine, and make a statement as a serious collection investment.

Buy: NM or M

DJs & Musicians

As a DJ, you need records that play cleanly. Buy VG+ or NM records at minimum, you need reliable playback without skipping or noise between tracks.

Buy: VG+ or NM

How to Inspect a Record

Whether buying online or in person, use these four techniques to assess vinyl condition accurately.

1. Look at Photos Under Light

Online sellers should provide photos under bright light showing the vinyl surface. Look for scratches, scuffs, and play wear. Hairline scratches are normal on played records; deep gouges are red flags. Check both sides of the record.

2. Inspect the Cover Artwork

Check for fading, creases, seam splitting, and edge damage. Bright, vibrant artwork suggests light storage; faded or sun-damaged covers indicate age or poor storage. Photos should show the condition of the back cover and spine too.

3. Read the Condition Description

Detailed descriptions matter more than grades alone. "VG+ with light hairline marks" gives you a clearer picture than just "VG+." Ask sellers for specifics about audible noise, surface damage, or jacket issues before buying.

4. Listen to Audio Samples

Some sellers provide audio clips of the record playing. This lets you hear surface noise and pressing quality yourself. Even a 30-second clip tells you if the record plays well or has significant noise issues.

Vinyl Record Grading, FAQ

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