Grading Policy - Irie Mind Records

We grade rather conservatively. A VG+ from Irie Mind Records plays like a VG+. Questions? info@iriemindrecords.com

Near Mint (NM)

A nearly perfect record. Most likely only played once or a small handful of times. We won’t give a grade higher than this. The record should show no obvious signs of wear. A 45 RPM or EP sleeve will have no more than the most minor defects, such as any sign of slight handling. An LP cover will have no creases, folds, seam splits, cut-out holes, or other noticeable similar defects. The same will be true of any other inserts, such as posters, lyric sleeves, etc.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

A VG+ record will show some signs that it was played and otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of it. Defects will 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 one’s listening experiences. Slight warps that do not affect the sound are “OK” but will be noted. The label may have some ring wear or discoloration, but it should be barely noticeable. Spindle marks may be present. Picture sleeves and inner sleeves may have some slight wear, very 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. Occasionally we will give a VG++ rating if we feel a record is extra “clean”, but not strong enough to designate as NM.

Very Good (VG)

Many of the defects found in a VG+ record will be more pronounced in a VG disc. Surface noise may 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 may start to be noticeable, as with light scratches (deep enough to feel with a fingernail) that may affect the sound. Labels may be marred by writing, seams may be splitting or have been repaired with tape, or have 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.

Very Good Minus (VG-)

Generally given to records that have noticeable shelf or ring wear, damage to or illegible spines, or have had sizable seam splits that have been repaired. Any rating given lower than this (Good/Poor) would indicate a record that we would deem unplayable, or a sleeve with considerable damage.