best fluid for vpi 16.5 cleaner non-vpi brand?

Agree with Stiltskin. Walker Audio Prelude is the best I've used. Highly recommended.
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thanks for input so far.....is it better than the less expensive audio intelligent?

even though I hear mostly surface noise not loud pops, is the talisman necessary. Some professional reviewers love it but am a bit wary about a powerful magnet near my audio equipment!

Michael

I've not tried the Walker system. I currently use the Audio Intelligent fluids, and I am quite happy with the results. I use the three step process. I also use a separate brush and vacuum wand for each step to avoid cross contamination. For records that need a quick cleaning (ones that have already been given the three step process) I also have the one step AI cleaner as well.

A_L

A vote for Record Research super wash and deep cleaner. Now distributed by Mobile Fidelity.

Used 'em for years, no-nonsense and they work.

Another vote for the AIVS fluids. They're superior to VPI, Disc Doctor or old style RRL (now MoFi) in my own experience and that of several friends.

I haven't tried the Walker, but it's very similar in concept to AIVS so there's little reason to expect major differences. Prelude came out some time after the current AI product line began to acquire a well deserved following. If there's anything better about it (beyond a brand name) it's not apparent from the writeup on the Walker website. Has anyone compared directly?