How record grading really works (and why VG+ can still be noisy)
Ever bought a "VG+" record that looked clean but played like sandpaper?
You're not alone — grading vinyl is one of the most misunderstood parts of collecting. Let's break down what those letters actually mean, and why Very Good Plus doesn't always equal Very Good sound.
1. 🧾 The Goldmine Standard — not gospel
Most sellers follow the Goldmine grading system:
- Mint (M): Perfect, never played.
- Near Mint (NM): Looks unplayed, maybe one spin.
- Very Good Plus (VG+): Light marks, plays fine with minor noise.
- Very Good (VG): Noticeable wear and surface noise.
- Good (G): Plays through, but expect heavy noise or skips.
Sounds objective, right? In reality, everyone's "VG+" is a little different.
2. 🔍 Looks can deceive
A record can look flawless under a warm lamp but hide groove damage from worn needles or dirt.
That's why experienced collectors listen-test before grading.
If you only rely on visuals, you'll overrate at least half your collection.
💡 Pro tip: Hold the record under bright white light at an angle — you'll see scuffs invisible under yellow bulbs.
3. 🎧 The playback system matters
A VG+ on a high-end stylus may sound amazing, but on a basic turntable it can reveal every click.
Groove wear, inner-groove distortion, and pressing quality all play a part.
So when sellers say "VG+ plays clean on my setup," that's not always universal truth.
4. 💿 Sleeve condition ≠ vinyl condition
Don't confuse the two.
Many listings say VG+ / VG — the first grade is the record, the second is the sleeve.
A beat-up cover can hide a perfect disc, and vice versa.
Collectors often value the media grade far more than the jacket.
5. 🪄 Grading inflation is real
Online marketplaces encourage optimism — "VG+" sells faster than "VG."
That's why most buyers automatically subtract one grade mentally.
If a seller says "VG+," assume "VG" unless there's a play-test clip or detailed photos.
6. 🧠 Realistic expectations = happier collecting
Even a truly VG+ record will have some crackle between tracks — that's normal.
What matters is musical clarity, not absolute silence.
Part of vinyl's charm is the analog texture — just not the frying-pan kind.
Discussion time
Have you ever received a "VG+" that played more like "G"?
Or the opposite — a scuffed record that surprised you with how clean it sounded? Share your stories on social media and tag us — grading disasters are half the fun of collecting.