I have been trying to develope a system for grading of
tapes since I got started in this. The more tapes I
aquire and listen to the more I change my opnion of
how tapes should be graded. It is a very subjective matter and everybodys ears are different. Most tapes tend to get
graded lower on reflection. What I find most
difficult is comparing tapes from older shows with
those from later shows. A tape made in 1969 that
rates say an A or A- is never going to sound
like a tape from the late 80s or 90s that rates an A
or A-. Too many differences in technology, both on
stage, at the soundboard and in the audience.
Following is a general rundown of how I try to rate
the tapes.
A+ = Pretty much flawless. Not too many of these on
the list. Dicks Picks, Vault Release Series
and other Official stuff is A+ in my mind
A = Excellent tape. Little or no noticible hiss. Good
dynamic range. All instruments audible. Levels and balance good throughout.
A- = Very good tape. More hiss noticible. Maybe a
little dynamic loss. Levels/balance still
good.
B+ = Good tape. Starting to hear some real problems.
Hiss creeping up. Loss of dynamic range.
Levels/balance off. Boomby or bass heavy. Still
very listenable and worth having.
B = Some or all of the above problems getting worse.
Depends on how picky you are. I can still listen to
em.
B- = Getting hard to enjoy. You will probably want
to look for a better copy. Some older and rare stuff
just doesn't come any better than this.
Less than B- I don't list them.
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