In our store, every vinyl record is carefully selected and graded, using an internationally recognized grading scale. This guide will help you understand the meaning of each abbreviation and make informed choices.

Note on Grading:
LPs are often indicated with a double grading, for example, NM/EX. In these cases, the first abbreviation refers to the condition of the record, while the second indicates the condition of the sleeve.
Example: NM/EX = Near Mint Record / Excellent Sleeve.

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SS – Still Sealed
Record still sealed, never opened or handled. It is in its original factory condition, with a perfectly intact sleeve. Playback has not been tested as the record has never been removed.

M – Mint
Perfect in every respect. The vinyl has no visual or sonic defects, and the sleeve is immaculate. It is like new, both in sound and appearance.

NM – Near Mint
Excellent condition, with minimal superficial signs due to very careful use. The record plays perfectly, almost like new (but occasional surface noise is possible). The sleeve may show slight handling marks, but no obvious damage.

EX – Excellent
Record and sleeve show some more noticeable signs of use compared to a Near Mint copy, but remain in good overall condition. Small defects may be present that do not significantly affect playback quality.

VG – Very Good
The record has scratches or signs of wear, but is still playable. Surface noise, crackling, or sonic imperfections may occur. The sleeve may show discoloration, ring wear, small writings or stickers, slightly worn or unglued edges.

G – Good
Very used vinyl, with obvious sonic defects such as loud crackle and pops during playback. The overall quality is compromised but the record does not skip. The sleeve shows marked signs of wear, stains, writing or tears, but remains complete.

F – Fair
The record is essentially unplayable or severely damaged. The sleeve is also very damaged, with missing parts, significant tears, discoloration, or structural damage.

Why only Japanese vinyl?

Our store deals almost exclusively in Japanese vinyl pressings, a choice that reflects our dedication to quality and conscious collecting.

Japanese vinyl records are recognized worldwide for their superior sound quality, attention to printing materials, and precision in production.

This is also due to the fact that Japan, during the golden years of Hi-Fi, was the leading global producer of high-quality audio equipment.

At the heart of this excellence is also a deep cultural value: in Japanese philosophy, there is the concept of "mottainai" (もったいない), which expresses respect for objects and encourages their careful preservation to make them last as long as possible, avoiding waste. This is why many Japanese vinyl records reach us in impeccable condition.

Japanese pressings are also distinguished by several unique characteristics:

• The presence of the OBI strip, a printed vertical band that wraps around the sleeve. Aesthetically very pleasing, it provides information in Japanese about the album, artist, record label, and other details designed for the local market.
• Additional inserts such as booklets, stickers, lyric translations, photographs, and biographical notes, often absent in Western editions.

Collecting Japanese vinyl records means not only enjoying superior sound and visual quality but also embracing a way of experiencing music that prioritizes respect for the object, its history, and its longevity.