vpi cleaner

The more expensive VPIs have more features, but don't clean any better. Once you get an RCM, you will learn it's more about cleaning technique than whether you move up or down one notch in a product line. Buy the 16.5 with a couple of Disc Doctor brushes and some pure water rinse and you'll be just fine. Some people buy an extra wand or two so they can use a perfectly clean surface for their final rinse.

Don't forget to use steam as part of the cleaning process, it works much better the brushes.

I have used a 16.5 for about 6 years, same machine, cleaned about 1500 lps in that time. Still looks and works like new. I have thought about going to the 17 with fan for the ability for more cleaning before the machine heats up and a bit quieter but am unwilling to pay for or have a pump I would not use. I did try steam but fount it a pain and not better than the Audio Intelegent system I use. I do let them soak a bit. I also change wands between solutions but use the same table on all. I also try to keep the cork mat clean but brushing with a carbon record brush.