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. This is the normal grading for SEALED records, or the occasional vinyl which has been played just once and then archived and stored with care.
NEAR MINT (NM): Usually the highest grade used here; plays like new. No marks, scuffs or scratches on the record. The cover should have little or no wear, normally in shrink or partially in shrink. Usually played between 2 and 5 times, then archived and stored in a safe and dry place.
EXCELLENT (EX): The record shows signs of having been played, maybe a mark or two and some faint hairlines but there is very little lessening in sound quality. Dynamics, Clarity and Fidelity should all be excellent. Will have little or no background noise when clean. The cover may have some wear and/or creasing, but certainly no ring wear, cut corners, drill holes or major marks or damage. Labels are in top condition. Minimal irrelevant imperfections – nothing serious. Always handled with care. It could be EX+ (borderline NM) or EX- (higher end of VG+).
VERY GOOD + (VG+): Has some marks, scuffs and light scratches on the vinyl. Will play through without any skipping or major constant “ticks”. Some light background noise between songs. Record could have some surface spots or noises but it’s still a strong listenable and collectible copy. Cover has ring wear and bruised corners, shows light moderate wear or other light marks, but overall front and back are in good shape. No major defects.
VERY GOOD (VG): The record has obviously been played many times, with noticeable surface marks and the occasional scratch. Maybe a skip or two, nothing major; any shine basically gone from the vinyl. Will play with fidelity but background noise could be present. Cover shows wear or other problems. Not for mint maniacs but still a decent copy.
About the images/pictures:
Please note! Sometimes the image represents the release/reference, not the actual item we are selling. Any significant differences will be explained in the condition and/or in the description below.
But in many cases the pictures are taken from the actual item. One rule you can follow is that if the image is high res. and/or there is more than one picture on display, then the photos belong to the actual item we are selling. That will be the case in most Test Pressings, jackets with dedications/signatures or special and specific attributes, etc.
Do not hesitate to request pictures if you are interested or have questions/doubts: earcandyvinyl@gmail.com
