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Suggestions for an effective record cleaning kit??

I have just purchased a new Rega turntable and have gotten back into analog. I need some advice about record cleaning accessories. I currently use a "spray on" cleaner called "Premier" which seem OK, but it is hard to judge if it is really doing the job. Several years ago, I bought a basic "Needle Doctor" record cleaning machine that in my opinion did very little to improve the sound of my LP's.. I have generally taken good care of my limited collection, but some are just old with varying degrees of pops, clicks and noise. I still have a copy of Cat Stevens "Tea for The Tillerman" purchased in 1972---it actually sounds decent. Thanks, Jim
sunnyjim
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Some of us (probably most of the regulars on this forum) would disagree about Disc Doctor. The enzyme based fluid systems from AIVS and Walker outclean DD by a wide margin, and are also far easier to rinse off without leaving a residue.

The DD brushes are pretty good though.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,475 posts
 
Personally, I have a Nitty Gritty and found that steam cleaning is better, and cheaper. I have a Perfection steamer that was about 20 dollars from Waldgreens, and I'm in business.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,475 posts
 
Grimsbylad...have you tried steaming?? I don't think you would repeat again those words if you had.
learsfool
1,215 posts
 
I would personally save the money and buy the cheapest, hand-turned Nitty Gritty. Also, I would recommend the Audio Intelligent fluids - I have had great results with them.
headsnappin's avatar
headsnappin
295 posts
 
Stringreen, have you used both the steam cleaning along with your favorites cleaning fluids... That is extremely good. I've done just the steam cleaning and by itself leaves more than a bit to be desired, IMHO. To me it is like the job is done half way. If there are finger prints on an LP, after steaming they are still there but after using the AI they are gone.
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