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Cost to clean a record

I’ve heard a number of discussions reviewing various record cleaning systems.  But, I’ve only heard one vague reference, months ago, saying something like “too expensive to clean a record for me”.  I know people here are very meticulous in specs & quality.  So, I’m sure people regularly cost out their expenses.  I’d really like to know what people have observed as their cleaning cost per record of the various systems out there.   Also, as part of this, are there parts that wear out after X number of cleanings or “regular maintenance” & those costs.  Finally, are their opinions related to “X does a great job but, for $100 less Y does almost as job a job”

I’ve realized it really is a necessity & decided it’s time to pull the trigger on this.

I really appreciate all the wisdom out there.  Thanks
tochsii
inna
7,923 posts
 
Listen to Bill, he knows this stuff.
The least expensive method is what I do. Okki Nokki machine - $500 new, has been reliable after two years and hundreds of cleanings. Use Audio Intelligent 3 Step solutions plus #15 pre-cleaner, which I didn't try yet, by the way. Spread the fluid - 5 revolutions clockwise, 5 revolutions counter-clockwise, 5 revolutions clockwise. Soak each side for 10-15 minutes with Step 1 and Step 2 before vacuuming off. Repeat if the record looked very dirty or just very old. Double rinse with pure water - Step 3, vaccuum off.
Yes, Bill's method gives superior results, and my method takes a lot of time but not really effort. The key is soaking. Undamaged good vinyl records are almost silent on my Nottingham.
How high is your system's resolution ?
inna
7,923 posts
 
I re-clean records after 15-20 plays. With each re-cleaning they sound just a touch better than after the first cleaning. I also treat all records with LAST record preservative once after the first cleaning.
cleeds
6,276 posts
 

   tochsii 
I’ve heard a number of discussions reviewing various record cleaning systems.  But, I’ve only heard one vague reference, months ago, saying something like “too expensive to clean a record for me” ... I’m sure people regularly cost out their expenses.  I’d really like to know what people have observed as their cleaning cost per record ...
 Audio and record collecting is a hobby for me, so I've never calculated the cost per disc of cleaning an LP. I think convenience is the biggest factor - I found myself cleaning a lot more records after I bought the Klaudio than I did when I relied only on a vacuum machine. That might be something for you to consider in your decision process.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
The best is the KL Audio KD CLN LP 200 not cheap but it uses distilled water so its pennies a record.I myself have over 6,000 records many such as British Columbia Violin records that are worth over 1k a disc.I had VPI 16.5 and 17F the KL Audio ultrasonic is by far the best.If your budget is not up to it get a mint used VPI 16.5.Enjoy!!
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