Head Cleaning Fluid


I've just received my "new" to me Akai 747 reel to reel recorder. Beautiful! With aluminum Quantegy 499 reels it looks just great!
I have a question regarding what should I use to clean the heads. I've read on Internet that many Pro's recommend 99% Alcohol for the heads. And just moistened cotton swab for rubber wheels. I would like to ask you opinion before I start messing around.
I also purchased Teac demagnetizer. There is an instruction included there on how to use it properly. But I've heard many people are skeptic about demagnetizing the heads. Thanks in advance!
sputniks
I have a restored Teac Reel to Reel.Only use a cleaner recommended for the rubber rollers.If you use Alcohol in any form for the rollers they will dry out and crack.Use MG Chemicals Rubber Renue.This is a rubber restorer and works great on pinch rollers and other rubber parts.
I picked mine up at the local electronic shop.
The Last Company may still sell a tape head cleaner.I know they use to sell a specialised cleaner for the heads that would reduce wow and flutter across the heads as well.
Michael Percy may have this in his catalog.I know Radio Shack sells tape head cleaner as well.
I am an avid reel to reel listener and I use something that was recommended to me by a videophile. This is called
Head & Disc cleaner by a Co. called Rite Off. Their telephone # is (800) 645-5853. It evoperates very quickly and cleans well. A can will last you for years. I like the rubber renue mentioned by 76doublebass, I will try to get some of that too.
One of the best, if not the best currently available, is Professional Audio Tape Head Cleaning Fluid, #S-721H. It is not alcohol based.

The label reads: “S-721H is formulated to clean audio, video and computer tape heads, tape guides, capstans and pinch rollers. S-721`H will removr tape oxides, tape adhesives, soils, oils, waxes, greases and other various contaminants while still maintaining the desirable properties of low toxicity…Unlike alcohol, S-721H is non-hygroscopic, eliminating moisture or residue which can settle on components. This will promote extended life and healthy texture to the pinch roller.”

I have no affiliation with the manufacturer.

http://americanrecorder.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=12&products_id=97

I also like the MG Chemicals products: ie, Rubber renue and Tape Head Cleaner. You can do a google search for “MG Chemicals.” YMMV.

Jon
Although you may already know this--

Follow the Teac demag instructions as they state ie:

Make sure that the deck is not powered up, then with the demag turned on at a distance slowly move toward the heads then slowly go away from the heads and then turn the demag off.

Happy listening, R2R is a real fun adventure :)

~Fx
Anyone serious about demagnetizing would be lost without one of these ... http://catalyst.thirdeyemedia.net/rbannis/viewitems.eye?category=892&item=5756 to check your heads/tape path with first, then if required using this product http://catalyst.thirdeyemedia.net/rbannis/viewitems.eye?category=893&item=5757 to demag with.

For cleaning, I've used everything from regular IPA to Tech Wipes and finally some head cleaner that RRL makes. I was told that they use the RRL cleaner at Skywalker on their Studers.