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
Very interesting post and responses. I have over a 1,000 albums and have recently started to buy the audiophile recordings. One just came through slightly less than flat but still a good sound.

I haven't bought through eBay or other sites but would be curious to know those sellers of used albums that you use and believe to be reputable.
I've been stung buying from Goldmine 20 years ago,stopped buying because of way over graded rubbish.On ebay I look for detailed info about defects and ask if any scratches and return policy.There is nothing like a play graded record,visual second to determine condition,noise and sound quality.I have visual mint LP's that are just worn out,no noise,just flat no soundfield.
Thanks for the tip about Academy Records' Ebay store, Lowrider. It's nice to know that some people still stand behind the stuff they sell. Very rare anymore no matter how much you invest. Their expertise appears to be in genres that are outside of my primary focus, but I'll keep them in mind because you never know what might turn up. Thanks again!
Record grading is primarily for collectors who value pressings, etc and often view LPS as investments...hardcore collectors rarely play their collections...they view this as degrading and potentially devaluing their records...Audiophiles/audio enthusiasts are more interested in how a record sounds, performs, or (mis)behaves. This is condition dependent as well, and causes some confusion as some of the early pressings (collectables) can be the most sonic pleasing of any given individual LP.
Phasecorrect, I don't think you're entirely correct.
I'm neither audiophile or crazy collector.
I only value artist and not really record issues at all.