USED VINYL
How we grade used records
These are the grades we use in the San Clemente shop and on used copies listed online. If a copy isn’t as described, our return policy still applies.
Mint
Unplayed, or so close it doesn’t matter — often still sealed. The disc and the sleeve look like they just left the plant. We don’t use this grade lightly.
NM — Near Mint
Maybe played a few times, always with care. Still essentially a new-looking copy: only the slightest sleeve rub or paper-trail from handling. It should play clean.
VG+ — Very Good Plus
A copy that’s clearly been enjoyed, and still sounds great. You might see light marks or some wear on the sleeve, but they don’t get in the way of the music.
VG — Very Good
Moderate wear. Surface marks on the disc, maybe ring wear or a soft seam on the sleeve. It plays through, with some audible noise you can live with at the price.
VG− — Very Good Minus
Heavier wear and more noise. Still playable, more of a listener or a placeholder until a nicer copy turns up. We price it that way on purpose.
G — Good
A well-loved copy: scuffs, sleeve damage, the signs of a record that got played. We’d only sell it if it still plays and the price is honest about the condition.
Used copies $14.98 and up show up when you choose Show used on a genre page. Our $5 and $10 bins are in the shop only.