2. analog
  3. 128615-13747

Best value record cleaner/cleaning system

Thought I would ask the group -- when I was last in the analog game some 12-15 years ago it was a VPI or Nitty Gritty for record cleaning (that and the wood-handled Discwasher pad with red-bottle liquid, Zerostat and Decca CF brush for just before playing an LP)... are these still the go-to standard units, or has the state of the art / ’value’ options advanced to some other kits in the present? I see cleaner units now from Pro-ject, Music Hall, Spin Clean, etc etc.

In my case I am not trying to ’deep clean’ mistreated, flea market or recycled recors store records... just good hygiene maintenance-cleaning of a treasured collection - 80% regular records, 20% ’audiophile’ pressings.

Thanks in advance.
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xjjss49
Ag insider logo xs@2x
louis94901
3 posts
 
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?
Ag insider logo xs@2x
drrsutliff
858 posts
 
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. 
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49 OP
6,612 posts
 
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
More to discover