First record cleaner

My friend's ProJect is a nice, affordable machine. The record doesn't touch a platter on this design. 

I had a VPI HW as well for about 20 years until it died. Did a good job. 
 

I replaced it with a Nessie. It is an many times quieter and less than half the size. I was so happy with the new one after putting up with all the noise for so long. But, I was thinking the same when I first bought the VPI… the best for low cost. I would have sprung for a better one if I had known it was going to be a permanent fixture in my audio room.

But you just never know.

I use a an entry level VPI... honestly, I think it's all anyone really needs. I considered ultrasonic cleaners but the VPI works so well. I've cleaned some really grimey records with it.

I use different formulas for different types of cleaning. 

I have a NittyGritty and hardly use it.   All you need is a good record brush

Had an okki okki, sold it, had a Kirmuss and sold it before I took it out of the box because of the overheating issues and also the toothpaste film it left. Now down to an Audiodesk ultrasonic and couldn't be happier. 

I’m not sure what your budget is but I use the VPI HW 16.5 Record Cleaning Machine with the Walker Audio Prelude system. Most of my records I purchase are used and I’ve found that this works best for me.

You're welcome, my pleasure.

These responses have been most helpful!

Did some research and will be going with the HumminGuru - Thanks @vinylvalet!

For a first I recommend going all in on a cheap ultrasonic setup. I go back to the Nitty Gritty 40 years ago and there is no comparison. Distilled water and a few drops of surfactant.

I do 9 at a time. I only use my Zerostat for my burr grinder.

One of these is great. I use two; one for wash, one for rinse.

Ultrasonic Record Cleaner

Here's a detailed thread with more information.

More Information

I would also suggest an ultrasonic cleaner.  It's the most effective way to clean records.

I would think that most would recommend an ultrasonic record cleaner.  The shiny, best ones are a few thousand dollars, but you can get a VEVOR ultrasonic cleaner for records for only $200, and it seems to work quite well…

IMO, assuming cost is a consideration, get a Nitty Gritty. It’s compact, reliable and you don’t have to leave the records drying in a dish rack.  Their Pure 2 fluid is also fine for cleaning most records. If that’s too expensive, you can get a Record Doctor for about $200 and I’m sure it will be fine as well. Audio Intelligent #6 is a good 1-step cleaner to start with. The high-end ultrasonic machines are the best, but you’re talking 3-5k. Buy one if you have the $$.

Look into the original record cleaning machine ever made for the BBC, Keith Monks. 

I've used a Spin Clean over 10 years, because I always find excuses to not take the plunge. Someday, in this lifetime I'll get a proper machine.

Spin Clean makes for a clean appearing LP more than anything. The Project unit gets good reviews, and it's relatively inexpensive.

If you want to do it just once-consider a US machine. The Audiodesk and DeGritter users can chime in. The times I've used one, it does what it's supposed to do.

Machines won't miraculously make a groove damaged LP quiet.

There's always that ridiculous glue method

Tutorial: Record's Cleaning with wood glue - The right way! - Bing video 

SpinClean. Simple but effective.