LP Grading Information

Kernow Classics is committed to quality and service.  We have devised our own strict criteria for grading records and their sleeves so that customers can buy with confidence.  

Visual checking of records is not in our opinion sufficient to ensure that records are graded accurately - many a 'click' or 'tick' can thereby go unnoticed.  Each record Kernow Classics offers in its catalogue has been professionally cleaned, played through in its entirety and listened to attentively.  We are therefore confident that the grading of each record within the catalogue reflects accurately its playing condition.  Within the Ex and VG grades there are often additional + and - grades.   This is a recognition that not all LPs will sound as good as they do on our equipment (Linn Sondek LP12 turntable; Adikt cartridge) which gives phenomenal sound.

Record condition
Ex                    as silent a surface as one is ever likely to find
Ex -                 possibly one or two slight clicks may be heard
VG+                 might have light marks or small pressing blisters leading to a not quite silent surface. Might have occasional intermittent clicks or knocks (in our grading a click is quieter than a tick. A knock sounds like a faint bump)

VG                         several clicks in succession, generally less than ten  
 
VG- or G               soft clicks possibly repeating, lasting generally less than thirty seconds or giving occasional intermittent ticks. This category also includes wear commensurate with age; We assume that most fifty-year old LPs will have been played many times, possibly with less than perfect equipment. If this is the case, one will encounter some distortion at climaxes.

Fair                     contains one or deeper or longer scratches resulting in repeated ticks bordering on the irritating.  LPs graded Fair are included if they are particularly rare or interesting and have a sleeve in better condition

Sleeve condition
Excellent
In the same condition in which it was originally sold


Very Good
Some slight creasing or slightly loose laminate. Could be slightly faded or the LP imprint may be partly visible. May contain slight label or sticker damage

 
Fair
Sleeve could have some slight tears, be sellotaped, or be faded (wear commensurate with age)

 
Poor
Exactly what it says! Very worn sleeve possibly with very poor repairs.  Only included if the product is particularly rare or interesting or if the LP is in better condition.