Understanding the Record Grading Scale on

The online world of second-hand record collecting has its own unique challenges and nuances, particularly when it comes to evaluating and grading records. On platforms like , the grading system is a crucial aspect that sellers and buyers must navigate with care.

Is the Record Grading Scale on Reasonable?

The grading definitions on , especially for the near mint (NM) category, have faced criticism from many collectors. The site’s definition of NM is often seen as overly broad, almost a synonym for mint, which can lead to misunderstandings and misrepresentations.

A true near mint record should exhibit only minor imperfections that don't significantly affect its overall condition. However, many sellers label their records as near mint even when they are virtually mint, simply to avoid potential buyer complaints about minor wear. This leads to a misalignment between the seller's description and the actual condition of the record.

Another issue is the variable definition of Very Good (VG). On , a VG record can range from one with minor scratches and warps to a disc that is nearly mint. These differences often reflect the seller’s interpretation rather than a standardized system. Ideally, a VG record should have visible issues but play well, whereas an NM record should be nearly perfect.

Accurate Grading on

sellers tend to be more accurate in their grading compared to platforms like eBay. For instance, while eBay might have an "EX" grade for extremely mint records, Discogs does not. Instead, sellers often downgrade to VG if they find any imperfections, ensuring a more transparent grading system.

However, the subjective nature of record grading, especially for second-hand items, remains a challenge. The condition of a vintage vinyl album can be affected by various factors, including the age, production quality, and wear and tear. These elements can significantly impact the final grade assigned by the seller.

Subjective Grading of Vinyl Records

Grading a vinyl record involves both appearance and sound. When visually inspecting a record, you may find it looks mint, but hold it up to the light and see faint scratches. These minor imperfections can make a significant difference in the record’s overall condition. Even slight spindle marks or sleeve removal marks can affect the record's grade.

The age of the record also plays a role in its condition. For example, early Beatles pressings might look damaged but play flawlessly. Conversely, some modern records may look pristine but have background noise that can’t be fixed by cleaning.

Genre also influences how records are graded. Some early rare reggae and ska 45s have been played so much that their condition is subjective. Additionally, audio quality is a critical factor; if a record plays well despite minor visual imperfections, it deserves a higher grade.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the grading system on , while subjective, can be reasonably accurate if applied correctly. The challenge lies in the variability of opinions and the different interpretations of what constitutes a particular grade. If you buy records primarily for the joy of listening, rather than display, focus on the playing quality. If you find a record that exceeds the description, don’t hesitate to return it.

However, it's important to be aware that the grading system is not infallible, and buyers should critically assess their purchases. Be prepared to spend time researching the specific record you're interested in, especially if it is rare or valuable.

Keywords: Discogs grading, record grading, second-hand vinyl