In 1988, in order to remain independent from commercial interests of the music industry, the jury officially registered as a non-profit organization, Preis der deutschen Schallplattenkritik e.V.
These nominations cover a wide range of performers and works, newcomers and established artists, and they may include bestsellers as well as rare gems and little-known discoveries.
They broadcast for public, private or online internet radio, they write for newspapers and specialized magazines, they do research on music history or work as DJs.
The Preis der deutschen Schallplattenkritik is open to all productions and formats, regardless of the record company's size or country.
The "Quarterly Critics' Choice" (Bestenliste) is widely regarded as a guide to the best new releases, which are outstanding either for their quality of interpretation or creativity, or for their value to the repertoire.