Evaluation and grading of the units
ES Audio Store Buyer Guide
When buying vintage hi-fi equipment, the condition of the unit is one of the most important factors affecting value, reliability, and collector interest.
At ES Audio Store, we use a clear and conservative grading system to describe the cosmetic and functional condition of each item. Our goal is to give buyers an honest and realistic understanding of what to expect before purchasing.
Vintage equipment rarely exists in “perfect” condition. Most components are decades old and have been used, serviced, or stored over long periods. A grading scale helps communicate the overall visual condition, while technical condition and service work are described separately in each product listing.
Many collectors and marketplaces use similar grading systems based on long-standing collector standards such as the Goldmine grading scale used in record collecting and other collectible markets
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
CONDITION GRADING SCALE
Grade Label Description
10 Mint/NOS New Old Stock, unused, factory plastics intact
9 Near Mint+ Virtually flawless, microscopic wear only
8 Near Mint Very light marks, perfect function
7 Excellent+ Minor cosmetic wear, fully functional
6 Excellent Noticeable wear but clean overall
5 Very Good Moderate wear, fully working
4 Good Cosmetic wear + minor functional issues
3 Fair Needs service but complete
2 Poor Major faults, parts unit
1 Scrap Beyond repair / donor only
FUNCTIONAL / SERVICE STATUS SCALE
Grade Status Description
A Fully restored Recapped, calibrated, tested
B Serviced Partial service, aligned
B Working original Untouched but functional
D Needs service Known issues
E Non-working Faulty
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Cosmetic Condition vs Technical Condition
The grading scale describes visual condition only.
For each product listing, ES Audio Store also clearly describes:
- Electrical condition
- Service work performed
- Calibration status
- Upgrades or modifications
Examples may include:
- Full service and calibration
- BASIC ANALOG UPGRADE
- PREMIUM ANALOG STAGE
- SIGNATURE ES AUDIO STORE MODIFICATION
This ensures that buyers understand both appearance and technical quality.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Why Condition Grading Matters
In the vintage audio market, condition can significantly affect both value and collectability.
Factors that influence grading include:
- Front panel condition
- Chassis scratches or oxidation
- Original knobs and switches
- Display quality
- Wood side panels or covers
- Presence of original packaging and accessories
Collectors often prioritize cosmetic originality because it reflects how carefully a component has been preserved over decades.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Our Philosophy
At ES Audio Store, we grade conservatively.
We prefer a customer to receive a component that is better than expected rather than worse.
If you have any questions about the condition of a specific unit, feel free to contact us. We are happy to provide additional photos or technical details.
✔ Vintage Sony ES specialists
✔ Fully tested and serviced equipment
✔ Honest grading and detailed descriptions