We grade based on visual inspection of the vinyl (and other media) itself. We try to take into consideration the sound quality as much as possible, but given the sheer amount of records that we have, it is not always possible.SS - Still Sealed
Never Opened
M - Mint.
Perfect Condition. We rarely use this grade unless we're certain that it's never been played.
NM - Near Mint.
The record is opened but looks unplayed, the cover is almost perfect. May only have the slightest imperfections, if any.
VG++ - Very Good Plus Plus.
This is just one step below Near Mint condition. Vinyl is in fantastic shape but may have slightly more imperfections or flaws than a NM record.
VG+ - Very Good Plus
Sometimes referred to as Excellent. May have scuff marks and signs of some wear. Definitely no scratches or gouges that a touch with a dry finger can feel.
VG - Very Good
A VG record will display visible signs of handling.
Codes and Abbreviations
CC Cut Corner
coh Cut-out Hole
cvr Cover
DJ Disc Jockey Copy
EP 45rpm extended play
HIC Hole in Cover
HOL Hole on Label
LBL Label
MO Mono
PRO Promotional Copy
QUAD Quadraphonic
RE Reissue
SS Still Sealed
SMSP Seam Split
SOL Sticker on label
STKR Sticker
SOC Sticker on Cover
TOC Tape on cover
TOL Tape on label
TS Taped seams
WLP White label promo
WOL Writing on label
WOC Writing on cover
XOL An
If the above policy leaves any doubts, please refer to GEMM's generally accepted Grading Standard