Much like the Blue Ribbons awarded at the Iowa State Fair, our Blue Ribbon records exemplify the highest tier of vinyl condition—Our “Best In Show”. A Blue Ribbon record will appear virtually flawless, having been sparingly played, if at all. Each record is ultrasonic cleaned and placed in a custom, archival Japanese inner sleeve. A Blue Ribbon record is better than new.

We are passionate record collectors ourselves, so we know how frustrating online record shopping can be. Blue Ribbon is our seal of approval that the copy offered is as clean or cleaner than when it first hit the store shelf. You’ll always get a “keeper” copy when you choose Blue Ribbon. Your record will arrive clean and ready to play immediately.

What cleaning systems does RPM use?

We have a DIY ultrasonic, a HumminGuru ultrasonic, and a VPI Cyclone. We use a combination of these machines to get the records as clean as is currently possible.

Are Blue Ribbon records play-graded?

Some are where noted, most are visually graded. Keep in mind, we are saying that the record is flawless to the naked eye under bright light.

Why don’t you play-grade every record?

We strive to provide the customer with the best possible record, with as little wear as we can, and as limited handling as possible once the record has been cleaned.

What's the grading equivalent to goldmine?

Blue Ribbon records are not graded with the goldmine scale, rather we ask ourselves what a “Perfect” copy would look like and hold our copy to that standard.

Why don’t you just grade them NEAR MINT or MINT?

Blue Ribbon is our personal and professional seal of approval, not a grading.

Why dont you include an audio clip of every record?

In our experience, vinyl rips are not always representative of the in-room listening experience and do not accurately represent a record’s condition or it’s overall fidelity.

Do Blue Ribbon records play with virtual silence (no surface noise)?
Not necessarily. What plays silent on one system, may not on another. What we are offering is a record in the top-tier VISUAL condition showing little-to-no signs of handling or play of any kind.

I can buy the same pressing for $X on (website) in NM / M condition, why is your price higher?

Buy it and let us know your experience! We are often disappointed with our purchases on (website) besides from the most reputable dealers, and the record is going to arrive covered in dust either way. When you buy a Blue Ribbon record it will arrive ready to un-sleeve and play!

Blue Ribbon records are always packed outside of the jacket to prevent seam splits. We use reinforced mailers with plenty of padding and corner protection for safe and secure shipment.