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Record Cleaning Machine RCM

My present vinyl collection consists of about 100 LPs. On average, I purchase about 3-5 new LPs per year when the annual HI-FI Show comes to town. I've always purchased new with the odd purchase coming from friends for mint condition used LPs. My analog set-up is a VPI Scoutmaster.

I've read some very positive comments concerning the benefits of using a RCM and I'm serioulsy considering purchasing one.

For the money, I'm looking at the VPI HW-16.5 but I've read posts where people are complaining about how hot the unit gets due to the lack of a cooling fan while others have complainted about the noise. Should I be concerned?

My next choice up would be the VPI HW-17 but this unit costs about 2.5x more.

Suggestions / comments?
agiaccio
lak's avatar
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lak
4,645 posts
 
A machine that rotates the LP, a set of 3 good brushes, and a good cleaning solution (s) with a vacuum to remove the liquids works best for me. I like the three step method from Audio Intelligent Vinyl Solutions of enzymatic formula, super cleaner and ultra-pure water. Takes a bit longer but it works for me. There are other good cleaners out there also. My point is the 16.5 works for me.
axelwahl
788 posts
 
Hi Narrod
just check it out it's on my 'system'.

Hi Lak,
no question, even the Nittys work - mostly - of sorts.
How this can be an 'A rated' piece of equipment beats the hell out of me. I had the most expensive PRO2.
Good service, oh yes!
Well and ear defenders come cheap too. "All a matter of taste said the monkey, and bit in the soap" :-)
Cheers,
A.
dan_ed
2,451 posts
 
I suppose you guys don't want to hear about my $75, Hoover-based, lazy-susan, home-boy RCM. :-) It is every bit as loud as any commercial RCM. VPI has nothing on my plywood and cork Quasimodo machine. Hell, I even have the pleasure of spinning the LPs by hand. With enough liquid refreshment, the "motor" never gets even the slightest bit warm. No doubt about it! My Quasi sucks way more than a VPI! :-)
halcro's avatar
halcro
2,664 posts
 
Hi Axel,
I have had the Hannl (from TW Acustic) for 2 years and I love it. Very quite compared to the competition.
I haven't got the roller power arm that you have.......but I gues it's retro-fitable to any Hannl machine?
axelwahl
788 posts
 
>>> I haven't got the roller power arm that you have.......but I gues it's retro-fitable to any Hannl machine? <<<

Yes, it fits on any of their models. It's practically just a swap for the standard brush arm.
I just wouldn't ever want to go back to the normal brush --- but then most of vinyl is 2nd hand.
Axel
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