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Record Cleaning Backlash

I bought myself a Nitty Gritty RCM about a year and a half ago. I started out using NG Pure2, applying it to the velvet lips and cleaning as per NG's instructions. It seemed ok, but as all things in this hobby, we wonder about the next step. So I bought some Disc Doctor and some AI pure water and started a multi-step process. Applying the DD with the DD brushes, taking it off with tissue, using pure water, off with tissue, another pure water rinse and vacuum it all off. I also tried L'Art Du Son and kept the mixed portion in my fridge. Also, the same multi-step procedure as Disc Doctor. I never went as far as Walker.

Well, I think I just got sick of spending so much time cleaning and went back to a very simple procedure. Nitty Gritty Pure 2 one-step fluid, applied with a DD brush, and then vacuum off with the NG. I will tell you - it works great and it's fast, easy and clean. I play the record after cleaning and there's nothing on the stylus tip.

Caveat - I'm talking about new or almost new vinyl here. I'm not trying to get 20 year old Pepsi out of the grooves. For that, the procedure would be more involved. So I ask you to free yourself of the tyranny of record cleaning and get sensible again. Or not! Whatever makes you happy. I'm just reminding myself and you that you can effectively clean both sides of a record in three minutes with great results and not having to clean 6 brushes when you're done. Enjoy.
chayro
theo's avatar
theo
2,694 posts
 
I agree that the Walker Prelude is a great cleaning system but as mentioned it is a time consuming pain in the ying yang. I have decided to use it only on used. And now I use the MoFi Enzyme cleaner and Prelude 3 rinse on new lps.
I did see the Record Spin bath system at RMAF it seems to have been around awhile. Any one have experience with that system?
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Steam, steam and more steam. It works wonders and a unit at Walmart will set you back $25. If your not impressed with the results, back it goes. But then again, the unit is great for doing other types of cleaning and pressing.
chayro OP
3,002 posts
 
Based on the number of apparently satisfied customers, I don't doubt that steam does a very good job. But I've watched that You Tube video and it looks like a huge PITA and a mess. Apply and brush cleaning fluid, steam, steam again, add water and rinse, rinse again. That's exactly what I'm trying to avoid here. Power to those who want to deal with it, but I've just had enough. That's why this is a "backlash" thread.
chatta
314 posts
 
I have never used steam to clean. Maybe I will give it a try. Though it seems to me I read somewhere to be careful when using steam. Not sure why though.
dopogue
1,773 posts
 
I'm with you, Chayro. Record cleaning is enough of a chore without feeling like you're slaving away in a laundry. Dave
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