Milty Zerostat - Questions


I recently purchased a new Milty Zerostat gun, but I don't think it's working properly. I need help answering the following:
- Am I using the Zerostat correctly?
- Do I have a defective unit?
- Is this yet more audiophile BS?

Usage:
I hold the gun about 5" above the spinning record, slowly pulling the trigger (no click). I then point the gun elsewhere when releasing the trigger, and repeat this about 2 or 3 times per side. I can hear a very, very faint burst of air emitted from the gun, but it doesn't sound like very much.

Problem:
I have a box of recently inherited albums, all of which are in good condition, but have a substantial amount of static cling (and dust). After using the Zerostat in the method described above, I have failed to notice any audible difference. There is still a noticeable amount of pops/crackles when I play the records. Additionally, I have found that the dust particles (or paper particles from the inserts) have not loosened either. The record brush just spreads the crap around, so to speak. These records probably need a good cleaning, but shouldn't the Zerostat help... at least a bit?

Testing the Unit:
Included in the packaging is a small 'plastic bit' that you affix to the nozzle. When you pull the trigger, the light bulb inside the plastic bit should glow slightly, if the gun is in proper working order. When I attempt this test, the light bulb glows very, very faintly, if at all, and only for a short period of time (.5 seconds). The light bulb definitely glows when I pull the trigger quickly and hear a click. So, do I have a defective unit? The instructions on the box made it sound as if the test is hit or miss.

Should I be kicking myself for spending $100 on a plastic gun? Any/all help would be greatly appreciated (sorry for the book).
jferreir
Check the archives, you will find more than enough information and opinions on how to use your Zerostat.

According to mine, you need to place the gun with the "light bulb" up against a grounded piece of metal. Like a piece of iron plumbing, when pulling the trigger the "bulb" should illuminate indicating the release of ions.

I have already searched the archives and found a wealth of conflicting information/advice. I'd like to settle the matter once and for all in this thread.

I also tried pressing the 'plastic bit' (AKA light bulb) against the faucet, but didn't notice any difference. The bulb only glows faintly, for a brief split second.

If you have a Milty Zerostat gun, is your experience the same?
I use the Zerostat the following way. LP NOT spinning. About 4-5" above LP, Slowly squeeze & release trigger on 2-3 different spots on LP. Then used anti-static brush. Seemed to work pretty well.
Can you please define "pretty well"? I've repeated those exact steps and noticed absolutely no difference.

Just this minute, I played a record with pops/crackles on the first song. I stopped the record, used the Zerostat, brushed with an anti-static brush, used the Zerostat again... still no difference. The record was purchased new and is in mint condition.

I'm starting to think that the Zerostat is a colossal waste of money...