Grading standards

Earth Wave grades its records very conservatively, pursuant to the following standards:

Mint

A MINT (M) record should appear to have just left the manufacturer without any handling; that is, it should appear perfect, a collectors' GEM!

Near Mint

A NEAR MINT (NM) record is a record that is otherwise mint but has one or two tiny, inconsequential flaws or blemishes but playes perfectly. Covers should still be close to perfect with minor signs of age or wear becoming evident.

Mint Minus

A MINT MINUS (M-) record is one level below near mint. The vinyl will have more visual imperfections and may have faintly discernable imperfection in audio. Covers might have more visible signs of wear (ie, slight ring wear and denting, etc..).

Very Good Plus

A VERY GOOD PLUS (VG+) record has beenused but not abused! The disc ususally has scratches, there are paper scuffs from sliding the record in and out of the sleeve or the vinyl may have lost some (but not all) of its original lustre. There is audible suface noise, but it should not overwhelm the musical experience. It is an item that is obviously not perfect. Covers on VG+ albums may have more visible wear ; such as heavy ring wear and split seams.