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Ultrasonic LP Cleaning vs. “Thread Type” Cleaning (Keith Monks/Loricraft/etc.)

Many dealers now tout ultrasonic record cleaners as the ultimate, yet companies like Loricraft and Keith Monks continue to introduce new “thread type” (or “string”) record cleaners.

There was a recent discussion in one of Michael Fremer’s on-line columns (https://www.analogplanet.com/content/sme-loricraft-introduces-upgraded-thread-type-vacuum-record-cle...) announcing a new thread type record cleaner from Loricraft. In the comments section, several owners of thread type cleaners praised them and one person stated a “thread type”was better than their own ultrasonic cleaner.

I’m interested in hearing from those of you who have experience with BOTH types of record cleaners, and what you perceive to be the pluses and minuses of each.

As for myself, I’ve been plodding along for years with a VPI 16, and I would like something that is faster to use and that will run for more than an hour without overheating. 😎
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millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Watch the Origin Live video where Mark Baker examines different cleaning methods. Study Better-Records.com and see what Tom Port uses. Hard to think of two more serious vinyl spinners, and they both come to the same conclusion.
tablejockey
3,916 posts
 
The fact that we now have choices that's equivalent to putting a slice of bread in the toaster, wait a few minutes and it's done is appealing.

If you're dedicated to LP playback, spend the money on the best you can afford.
jperry
2,450 posts
 
I have a VPI 16.5 and an Audio Desk Systeme US cleaner. The Audio Desk is great and from listening tests, cleans deeper than the VPI.

If you have real dirty on a record it needs to be cleaned with the VPI first.

@millercarbon, I would appreciate knowing the conclusion without having to root through a couple of websites. Thanks.
mikelavigne
2,199 posts
 
i’ve owned 7 RCM’s. the VPI 16.5, 2 different Loricraft PRC4 Delux’s, the Audiodesk (3 different ones). and currently only use the KLaudio RCM.

agree that thread type RCM’s have the best potential performance since you can also use chemicals with them for challenging pressings. i would call myself ’agnostic’ about thread verses ultrasonic. i’m more about synergy with my listening.

about 5 years ago i figured out that the best RCM is one that does a great job, is easy to use, quick and always works. it makes my vinyl playing experience the best.

the KLAudio does that for me. unfortunately they no longer make them as they cost too much to build. mine is a keeper. i can easily listen and clean at the same time. it’s on a table outside my listening room door, and is quiet enough that it does not intrude on my listening. easy for me to clean one pressing while listening to another. no muss, no fuss. just distilled water.

the sonic differences between the top level RCM’s is like counting angels on heads of pins. your listening process and vinyl handling process is equally important......clean room, good HVAC with a proper air filter system. i clean my pressings sparingly unless i buy a used collection.
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