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disappointing VPI 16.5 performance??

I just got my 16.5 up and running. I chose to throw some challenging records at it right away because they are really the reason I got the VPI. One is an older recording of a couple oboe sonatas. The other is a brand new Metallica re-master by MoFi.both continue to have high surface noise: the oboe recording seems to have tiny spots all over it, like spotty glasses after washing dishes. It was like that when I got it. The Metallica was horribly contaminated right out of the jacket: debris, "gunk", paper strands, etc.

I'm using MoFi Deep Cleaner, Super Wash, and their brushes, with a double distilled rinse with the VPI brush. Is there something else I can try. There has been some improvement, but not as much I'd like to see.
ethanw
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ncarv
983 posts
 
On tough records, I use the same process as Rick Hilton.
Be aware . . . some used records look great but sound terrible. (Some look terrible, but don't sound too bad at all!) Visual grading is no guarantee. If the previous user didn't have the cartridge set up right, there could be groove wear that will always result in noise. Also, mold is often (usually?) difficult (impossible?) to remove.
vinyladdict
164 posts
 
The other thing nobody seems to be mentioning is that they may just be bad pressings that no amount of cleaning will solve; or, as Ncarv mentioned, groove damage on used LP's.

I have found that numerous "audiophile" pressings, like the Metallica you mention - which I believe was actually only mastered by MoFi and pressed by RTI - suffer from an unacceptable level of surface noise.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Steam is the answer. Very inexpensive ($30)and when used in conjunction with the 16.5 should solve most of your problem.
tubeo
72 posts
 
I agree with Buconero117 . Some NEW Pressings suffer from noise that is pressed into the vinyl when they are made . NO cleaning can help this !!!!

As for the Oboe Sonatas , depending what has caused the Spots , they may be etched [ chemical reaction ] into the vinyl forever .

Record Cleaning Machines are a necessity , but can't solve ALL problems on vinyl surfaces .
tubeo
72 posts
 
I meant to agree with Vinyladdict
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