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Record Cleaner Advice?

The recent refurbishment of my analog front end has me thinking it would be wise to get myself a new-fangled record cleaner.  My old Nitty-Gritty still works, but I'm sure you all have much to tell me about newer, better options.  Advice please!

Not that it matters much, but my front end: SOTA Star Sapphire with new bearing, SME V overhauled by Alfred Kayser in Canada (dismantled, cleaned, new ceramic bearings and shotgun Cardas gold litz cables from cartridge to preamp) and new Audio-Technica ART9XA.  I need clean vinyl!
keegiam
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,911 posts
 
The Walker system arrived today and I will trial it against my existing system of Nitty Gritty / Brooks Berdan two step process. I have modified both of my Nitty Gritty machines to accept a disposable aerospace grade lint free wiper. I will weave the Vinegar step in also and report findings. Off to buy three sequential MoFi pressings to level the playing field on the listen testing side of the equation.

what a great thread, thanks to the real contributions of many
rsf507
2,315 posts
 
Been using the Keith Monks new Prodigy for months now I think part of why it cleans so well is the Monks own fluid. Don't know if it actually helps dissolve grime but it does a better job than several other fluids I've used. Yes the machine has some minor quicks that the dealer was honest about explaining but for it's asking price and ease of use I'm a happy camper.
antinn
395 posts
 
@tomic601 

Do not use vinegar with the Nitty Gritty or any vacuum-RCM; the vinegar - acetic acid can corrode the metal vacuum blower/motor.  Although vinegar at 5% acidity is a weak acid it can corrode steel or plated steel.
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,911 posts
 
@antinn vinegar step will be done in nearby sink..thanks for reminder about weak acid..

more results later...
keegiam OP
731 posts
 
Finally listed the busted-MDF HW-17F machine I received last month.  It was barely used and poorly packed by the inheriting granddaughter.  Working perfectly.  It's sad this is my first Audiogon listing, but an inexpensive alternative for garage or basement (or parts). 

My new record-cleaning spot is my kitchen, and I don't want this one on display, even if patched up.
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