Best value record cleaner/cleaning system

I just got the newest iteration of the Pro-Ject (marketed as the MK II in the UK) and have been pleased with it.  I paid $499, and the dealer threw in a dust cover. I still use my Spin Cleaner for the really dirty records first...don’t want to stress the new baby yet 🙂.   I am still experimenting with my cleaning process.  

The company has a recommended cleaning process of adding drops of their (diluted) cleaning liquid, turn on the machine rotation, use the goat-hair brush to spread the liquid, reverse the rotation and use the brush again, then vacuum two rotations and reverse for two more rotations.  

My dealer recommended another process that he uses for his record cleaningservice: he uses a Spin Cleaner for the initial cleaning of very dirty records, then attaches the record and cover, adds liquid, then gently scrubs with a Mobile Fidelity cleaning brush.  He then vacuums the machine in one direction.  

I have seen a marked improvement in the sound quality, and my cleaning and drying time is halved.  Love the fact the RCM has no platter.  I have had only two minor problems:  the aluminum arm rests on a plastic collar and is so tight I could not manipulate it; a little engine grease fixed that.  Also, the vacuum arm when fully swung over touches the record lock and causes aluminum shavings to fall on the record.   Slightly adjusting the vacuum arm avoids this. The factory-provided liquid seems to work well

Hi,  I'm considering a VPI 16.5 ($800) versus a Pro-Ject VC-e ($499) or VC-S2 ($699).
The VCI does not have a reverse button; The VC-E apparently has a hole on the base below the record which is sucked up when spinning the records so the bottom side of the record gets dirty while being cleaned. I heard they have a plate to cover this that they are including in newer models.

I'd appreciate any recommendations, i.e. which brand and model would you recommend and is the reverse feature that important in cleaning albums?

I used the VPI 16.5 with a three step process (enzyme, cleaner, ultra pure water rinse) for 15 years. This was when used albums joined my collection and employed a one step for new pressings.  Once that was complete rarely was it revisited. The machine was reliable and a solid performer, though it is a little loud so I used ear plugs.  I have since moved to ultrasonic cleaning and sold the VPI to another who is continuing to achieve good results with its use. 

this is thread i posted asking for info 3.5 years ago... glad it is still serving a good purpose

to close the loop i bought an okki nokki some time back... i am very happy with it