How well does the VPI 16.5 work??


I am looking for opinions on the VPI 16.5. Does this machine do a nice job with cleaning new and old vinyl...
Is it messy... what fluids are used..any tricks?
Is there any comparable products that I should consider..
Kindly,
Joe
Custom Audio LLC
audioman4
I had a VPI HW16.5 for several years and recently sold it, replacing it with a Loricraft. The Loricraft costs quite a bit more than even the HW17F, but I find there are two nice benefits. First, it does a better job. Records I thought were starting to wear were restored to like new condition. Second, it is quiet. The VPIs and similar machines are very noisy. The Loricraft, on the other hand, makes some noise, but I can actually be listening to a record and cleaning one at the same time, for example. The only disadvantages I see are the slightly longer time to clean (about 1 minute per side) and the use of nylon thread which probably isn't something you'll find at the local fabric store. I especially disliked the noise of the VPI, and the Loricraft is a pleasure to use in comparison and does a great job.
I just got mine 2 weeks ago.all i can say is WOW..WOW..WOW.. but a little nervous about using the brush that came with it
Ttrhp,
Use the supplied brush for spreading a large amount of liquid over the record surface. Do not try to cleanse the dirty record with it since you can damage it(the record).