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Original Message
RE: Record Grading
Posted by cactuscowboy@bresnan.net on October 21, 2013 at 12:23:28:
I think it's fair to say that the great majority of record stores and Ebay sellers who grade records are doing so on a visual basis. It's simply not feasible to "play grade" common records that would sell for ten bucks or less. A rarity that might sell for $100 or more? That's another story.
When I buy used vinyl, I'm in essence 'grading' on a visual basis, closely inspecting the records for signs of wear, pressing flaws, scratches, and abuse. When I buy LPs that I judge to be "Near Mint", they're invariably very clean and quiet without audible defect. Yes, there are a few with problems like non-fill, punched off-center, or a warp that I didn't notice, but that's very rare.
I was in a record store in Portland, Oregon a few years ago. I was the only customer and while I browsed, the owner was busy 'cleaning' records. He had a handkerchief and would dampen it with rubbing alcohol and wipe the dust off a record. I can only imagine his efforts were in reality pushing dust and gunk into the grooves rather than making a real improvement.