ALT & NEU Grading

At ALT & NEU Recordstore, we follow the internationally recognized Goldmine Standard. We grade conservatively to ensure you are 100% satisfied when your item arrives.

VINYL & CD MEDIA GRADING

All items are visually graded.

MINT (M) / SEALED

Absolutely perfect in every way.

The item is sealed in its original shrink wrap. Never played, never opened. It looks exactly like it just left the factory.

NEAR MINT (NM)

A nearly perfect record.

The record shows no obvious signs of wear. The disc is free of scratches.

VERY GOOD PLUS (VG+)

A great copy that has been enjoyed.

The record will show some signs that it was played and otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of it. Surface surfaces may show some light scuffs or very light scratches that do not affect the listening experience.

For CDs: May have light scuffs.

VERY GOOD (VG)

Visible wear, but enjoyable.

Surface noise will be evident upon playing, especially in soft passages. Groove wear will start to be noticeable, as with light scratches (deep enough to feel with a fingernail) that will affect the sound.

GOOD PLUS (G+)

Heavily played with visible groove wear.

We only put these online if it is a collector's item and hard to get, only reserved for those who need to fill a gap in their collection.

SLEEVE & INSERT GRADING

Mint (M): Sealed. Perfect. No corner dings, no creases, no fading.

Near Mint (NM): The cover has no creases, folds, seam splits, cut-out holes, or other noticeable similar defects.

Very Good Plus (VG+): May have slight signs of wear, such as a slight seam split, a cut-out hole, or a tiny bent corner.

Very Good (VG): Will have more obvious wear, such as tape, writing, ring wear, or larger seam splits.

If you have any specific questions about a record's condition, please contact us before purchasing.