Balalaika Favorites Mercury SR-90310 RFR-1/1 WL Promo EX+/NM

$

67

Balalaika Favorites, Osipov Russian Folk Orchestra.  Mercury SR-90310, RFR-1/1,  White label promo. US pressing. EX+/NM 

Record grade: EX+/NM.  The vinyl looks clean and problem free, with the exception of a couple of very faint slide marks on side 2. These do not sound and are not visible unless the disc is viewed at an angle under bright lights. There are no spindle trails visible on either side.  This disc has been fully auditioned. It plays with no significant audible defects. An exceptionally nice copy of a first issue. The sound is really spectacular. This LP deserves its reputation as one of the best Mercuries.  

Jacket: EX+/NM.  Nearly perfect.  There is no soiling, no ring wear, or other detractions. A tiny corner crinkle in the lower left front corner is the only thing I can find less than NM.  

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Record Grades 

The record grading is based mainly on a careful visual inspection. Time does not allow me to fully listen to all LPs.  If there are any marks, I will spot check by playing that area.  For the occasional LP of exceptional value or interest, I will fully audition it.  Ask me if you have any questions or need a fuller description for any item.   I try my best to avoid causing you any unpleasant surprises when you get your record.  Below are the guidelines I use. 

Mint (M): Only sealed LPs and LPs opened by me to confirm stamper information receive this grade. 

Near mint (NM):  LP is almost perfectly preserved.  There may be a spindle trail or two, or an occasional light hairline or mark which will not sound during play.  If there are visible marks on the vinyl, I will mention them as well as any audition results.  A NM record will not have significant audible defects, unless these are clearly factory defects.  Any such defects will be described in the listing.

Please remember, NM is not the same as mint and, for vintage LPs, even truly mint records will not sound flawless on good, modern equipment.  Please be reasonable in your expectations.  

Excellent+ (EX+): LP has a few more signs of play than NM, and may have a few spindle marks and some non-sounding hairlines or scuffs.  It should not have significant audible defects. 

Excellent (EX):  LP may have a few slight surface marks and/or spindle trails.  Although marks will mostly inaudible, some may cause light ticks for a brief time. 

Very good (VG):  There will be audible marks or scuffs but the record will be playable without skips or excessive wear.