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Can I clean my records manually?

Well, I know I can but, will this method yield acceptable results for approximately 6 months until I get a record cleaner? If so, I imagine I need a cleaning fluid and some type of a brush or rag. Can anyone recommend a method. Also, am I correct in assuming that the only value an automatic cleaner provides is convenience?

Further, can a dirty record damage a cartridge? I can't see how it would since dirt is softer than the vinyl grooves and lots softer than a diamond.

Am I that ignorant? Please, let me down easy.

thanx
128x128pawlowski6132
pawlowski6132's avatar
pawlowski6132 OP
592 posts
 
TBG, what is it about the machines that enables them to clean better? Better vacuum, better scrubbing or appication? What could the science be behind your intuition?
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
Just having some fun with you Norm.
:-)
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Pawlowski6132, it would have to be the vacuum. Everything else is largely the same in most instances. Your are using the steam, but most merely apply the cleaner and scrub and then remove the fluid or dry. I suppose some machines have applicators and some merely have you spread the cleaner around, but I think that is minor.

I think the benefits of the Loricraft and Keith Mooks is the vacuum being at one point on the record and moving outward across the record while riding on a string. You can actually hear the liquid being slurped off.

Audiofeil, you had me going as your comments are so close to what one hears too often both here and on AA.

I have actually seen microscope pictures of grooves using the Loricraft and other machines, and I have heard of the tests of cleaners removing some vinyl. These were by the manufacturer, however. I know of no such work by any reviewers.
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