M is ONLY for reissues / new releases / sealed records M- is a pretty much perfect record for me — any obvious signs that a record has been played I usually downgrade to an EX. EX is a very strong grade for me — just showing some signs of being played but no noise / cue burn / crackle / styrene burn. VG+ is for records that have obviously seen some wear and have had a good few plays and may even have light intro crackle but play very, very well. VG is for records with qui