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How to clean RCA inputs and outputs?

In the past few months I have purchased used audio equipment from AudioGone, AudioWeb, and eBay. All vintage from '70s & '80s. Almost all input and output jacks are covered with a dirty film, grunge, or slight corrosion, especially the unused RCA jacks. What is the best method and cleaner to safely use? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.
prlscs
cdc
1,929 posts
 
I like Caig ProGold from www.audioadvisor.com. Not only does it clean the contacts, it leaves a thin protective coating.
mikem
260 posts
 
Go to home depot in the electrical section. They have some contact cleaner in a blue can. It is $6 and leaves no residue. Spray some on a towel and wipe away. It works great... You don't want products that leave a residue.. it attracts dirt.
mike
bob_bundus
1,834 posts
 
(1) do NOT use an eraser. That will remove plating; that's much too abrasive.
(2) Pick a nice non-residue contact cleaner such as Kontact or Audioquest Ultraconnect.
(3) Get some pipe cleaners & cut into thirds. Did the pipe cleaner into the solvent & clean off the grunge. Repeat using a clean pipe cleaner. Pipe cleaners are mildly abrasive & will help to scrub off the dirt & oils. Remember your AC connections & speakers as well - clean *everything*!

Refer to this great link @Galan Carol Audio for more specifics in great detail.
http://www.gcaudio.com/Archives/howto.html
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