"Protocols" of record cleaning


I have recently "re-discovered" vinyl due to the purchase of another TT and was wondering what the "suggested protocol" was for cleaning vinyl ? While i own a VPI 16.5, it is quite honestly still in the box. I have been using the "old standby" Discwasher system in the meantime and it seems to work fine. I am curious as to how often a record should be "majorly" cleaned via the VPI, what the recommended proceduce was, what to use as the cleaning solution, do you "tidy up" with the discwasher in-between "scrubbings", etc... ??? I ( and many others i'm sure ) would greatly appreciate a small "novel" on the subject from some of the vinyl addicts that i know frequent this site. If there is another source for this info such as a vinyl website, please direct me there so as to save us all from coming down with Carpal-Tunnel syndrome : ) Sean >
sean
You might check Listener Magazine November/December 2000 issue, if you can find a copy. There's a fairly large section devoted to just this topic. There's also a fairly wide range of methods used. Most use a VPI cleaning machine, all the time, but some use the HUNT carbon fiber brush between major cleanings (it's used dry--no fluids).
When Michael Fremer was publishing a magazine titled "The Tracking Angle" one of the first issues ran an article describing a cleaning procedure. The procedure was rather involved and extensive and really requires more effort than is necessary for new or well cared for records. The procedure works well for very dirty and occasional deep cleaning. The magazine is no longer being published but you may be able to find a library that subscribed when it was. If not let me know and I will dig out my copy and get it to you. Good Luck, Doug
I use my VPI on every new LP before I play it to remove races of the mold release agents. The LAST Daily Record Cleaner fluid works well for this as it contains quite a bit of alcohol. You can also use VPI's own fluid, adding 25 % isopropyl alcohol to it as recommended in the VPI manual. I normally follow this with RRL record Wash, since IMHO it leaves less residue on the record. After that, a carbon fiber brush is sufficient. I only clean again if for some reason fingerprints get on the LP (very rare). For second hand LP's, I use the LAST Power Cleaner first, then the procedure above. If the LP is very old/dirty, you may have to repeat, and occassionally do it again after you play the LP for the first time.