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Record Grading...

There are reasons why to void Goldmine grading:

1. It doesn't assume testing a record by only identifying the visual usage intensity and intensity of scratches. Even noisy records that look great can be graded NM at your dissapointment when you start playing them.
2. Grading Mint sealed records may not be correct because the record could be so warped that it wouldn't play at all or will rumble too much so underneath the sealed jacket there could be the record that cannot even be G rated.
3. Record that clips-pops on one track with short duration should be by goldmine graded G even if the rest of songs are absolutely noiseless while noisy ones throughout all tracks can be graded VG+ if they look pretty. I disagree because the record that only has glitch on one track should be valued way higher vs. one noisy on all tracks.
4. Had received records VG+ where music is distorted due to the usage and large density of scratches(looks pretty though), but in reality it's not even G.
5. Nothing says in Goldmine standards about fingerprints and grease on the playing surface. Stains and fingerprints penatrate playing surface with accumulated dust over them and bring as much unpleasant noise as scratches or damaged grooves with poor and old styli tip.
czarivey
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
Too many times, a NM or VG record looks great, has a nice surface, but the grooves have been worn away. Especially records from 1950s, 60s. After cleaning the record, it's still bad from years of use by an ancient or poor stylus.
Yes, I know "Buyer Beware," and whenever I've contacted the seller, he admits he never played said record.

So, the grading system is no guarantee and you're correct regarding inconsistencies. Once you find a good dealer, stick with him.
phasecorrect's avatar
phasecorrect
2,013 posts
 
For the above various reasons...I only purchase at shops that will actually play an Lp for you...or have a dedicated listening table...tip: I tend to buy clean (NM) lps that have a sharpness on the outer rim...this indicates a) an Lp fresh off the stamper b) an Lp that has not been handled (played) often c) all of the above.
whart's avatar
whart
3,050 posts
 
I try to buy play-graded records (unless they are cheapies), and generally avoid sealed older ones (i'm not keep them sealed as collector's items, but playing them, and some sellers could force you to bear the risk on a sealed item). There are exceptions, but ultimately, it is caveat emptor, even if the seller is well-intended. Grading is subjective, despite 'standards.' And as you pointed out, you can have records that look fine and have been chewed up sonically, and others with faint hairlines that sound quiet and are fine, sonically.
I bought somewhere on the order of 1,000 records in 2013- virtually all used and many quite desirable 60's psych and rock and only got a few duds, which were, for the most part, the 'bargain' priced copies of what should have been more expensive records.
For expensive vintage records, I don't usually even bother looking for bargains- I'll pay the tariff rather than screw around trying to find a good playing copy cheap. There are certain well known vendors that charge a premium, but it is sometimes worth it;
But, I've also had the experience of buying some very collectible records at bargain prices, and those 'even out' the score.
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tubeo
72 posts
 
I'll present this from a Seller's view . I Sell records on ebay [ mostly Classical with some Rock and Jazz on Audiophile Labels ] .

As stated in my Ads , I at least play grade the records by putting the stylus down a number of times on each record side [ some have been played in it's entirety] . This is little more time consuming , but I have very few returns or complaints .

I have a lot return customers because of the above . Also , I think that because I am an avid Audiophile I have more sensitivity to Grading .

Therefore , it is possible to find a Seller you can trust . I have found a number of them for when I buy Records to add to my collection .

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