Neil and all,
I'm surprised this post seems to have gone dormant. I would have thought there might be more interest, thus further questions and comments.
For what it's worth I'll mention two parts of my cleaning procedure with the VPI 16.5, for those still using any wet/vac. Long ago I learned better cleaning can be achieved if I move the cleaning brush, rather than simply hold it in position. Using my thumb and first two fingers to grip the brush I rock it fore and aft while the wet record is spinning. I also move it side to side, maybe just over a quarter inch. This seems consistent with comments above about "working the surface".
Effective drying requires the suction tube to be set at the proper angle. Soon after I bought my 16.5, VPI staff advised the tube should be installed with the slot at a 185 degree position when viewed from the end. Set up that way I run the vacuum on for two revolutions, then shut it off. The suction is sufficient so that the tube remains on the record for nearly two more revolutions, then it lifts off. The record is always dry then, unless I need to absorb any small droplets on the label area.
I look forward to trying Neil's recommended procedure with my
VPI before any further consideration for a US cleaner.
I'm surprised this post seems to have gone dormant. I would have thought there might be more interest, thus further questions and comments.
For what it's worth I'll mention two parts of my cleaning procedure with the VPI 16.5, for those still using any wet/vac. Long ago I learned better cleaning can be achieved if I move the cleaning brush, rather than simply hold it in position. Using my thumb and first two fingers to grip the brush I rock it fore and aft while the wet record is spinning. I also move it side to side, maybe just over a quarter inch. This seems consistent with comments above about "working the surface".
Effective drying requires the suction tube to be set at the proper angle. Soon after I bought my 16.5, VPI staff advised the tube should be installed with the slot at a 185 degree position when viewed from the end. Set up that way I run the vacuum on for two revolutions, then shut it off. The suction is sufficient so that the tube remains on the record for nearly two more revolutions, then it lifts off. The record is always dry then, unless I need to absorb any small droplets on the label area.
I look forward to trying Neil's recommended procedure with my
VPI before any further consideration for a US cleaner.