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I finally bought a record cleaning machine $

I finally bought a RCM (VPI 16.5). While it most definitely makes for blacker backgrounds and removes a lot of the ticks and pops I seem to be picking up a lot of new noise that wasn't there before (a static sound). I am using Record Research Labs cleaner and (Deep cleaner on the really dirty stuff) followed by Last record preservative. I am trying not to run the vacum any more than I have to, as I read this can cause excessive static. My room is not overly dry or anything............... So what gives. Right now I am kinda bummed; I thought this was going to be the holy grail of those perfectly noise free records I have been dreaming about. Am I missing something? Do I have to spend more $$$ on one of those Zerostat guns?

Please help.

Chris

P.S. Sorry if this has already been discussed. I am lazy to search through the myriad of posts on RCM's right now.
cmo

Showing 3 responses by narrod

narrod
1,064 posts
 
Albert, I believe you. That's pretty much what I experience in my system. The bottom line is any system that has a mechanical or physical interface and friction is going to produce noise. I don't view it as a problem.
narrod
1,064 posts
 
This subject seems to come up with some regularity. It makes me wonder. There is no such thing as an absolutely silent record. For folks whose initial reference is CD they may never be happy. Well pressed records in mint condition can have a remarkably low noise floor but noise there will be. For those of us who grew up with records it is just part of the package. In a quality playback system the noise will stick with the speakers and should not detract from the musicality and soundstaging. It seems counter-intuitive that records would be noiser after cleaning. I've used the VPI 17F for years and years ever having this experience or any problems with static.
narrod
1,064 posts
 
Rushton, you nailed it. The playback system has much to do with it. I have a TNT6/Wheaton/Helikon, Linn/Ittok/Grado, Oracle/SME/Blackbird and Horizon/Rega/Denon connected in my system at all times. I like them all but the VPI wins handsdown when it comes to music coming from a black background.

Wendell
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