2. analog
  3. 1239288675

New member w a Cleaning Question

Hi all,

I just joined the forum, having just gotten back into vinyl recently. I just got a project debut, and lucked into some ECMs at a store close out, so I'm pretty happy. Many of my newly acquired and older reords need cleaning, thoguh, and that's where I need some help. I've been told and have read that the only proper way to clean them is w a vacuum RCM, but am not at that point yet in terms of spending. SO I was wondering if there's any point in using a cleaning fluid like Audio Intelligent which purports being useable as a hand cleaning (i.e. no vacuum) solution, or will the crud just stay on the record, just maybe move places? Thanks, and I'll probably have more questions later on.

GB
gbb
wkhanna
13 posts
 
I use the AI products.
I had always been hand cleaning using Disc Dr brushes and micro-fiber towels with what I thought were V good results.
Recently, I purchased a VPI 16.5 here, and can hardly believe the difference. IME, vacuuming has made a significant improvement in the SQ of all my LP's, used, filthy dirty used and even new sealed.
johnbrown
195 posts
 
Agree with virtually everything said as to the value of a RCM for sonics and vinyl longevity. If you own a large collection of LPs you'll eventually want some type of motorized machine to help reduce the drudgery, but until that time just cut a slot in your home vacuum's crevice tool and glue on the felt strips-or, there's all sorts of diy examples of RCMs all over the web. You don't need to spend much if you're determined and creative.
oilmanmojo
472 posts
 
Agree with NRENTER that a shop vac and strip of velvet will work nicely. Not as convienient as the automatics, but it is very effective. The use of a steamer, good cleaning fluid (can be home made or purchased) and lots of good clean water for rinsing, and you will be surprised at how good a used 40 year old record will sound. My RCM cost me about 40 dollars and it works very well. If you already have a shop vac, then your pennies away from cleaning records. If you go to a thrift shop and pick up a broken old dd or belt table for about 10 dollars, you have a stable platform to mount your records and spin while you clean, steam or vac.
More to discover