Record cleaning machine advise, want to buy,"HELP"

For an interesting and informative take on the topic, take a look at this link to a page on an audio enthusiast's website where he very neatly outlines his own thoughts and processes behind cleaning records and the methods he supports. It's an excellent and informative read, regardless of your decision to adopt his methods.

http://www.indiespinzone.com/other/recordcare.html

I have had the VPI 16.5, Record Doctor (made by Nitty Gritty), and Currently Nitty Gritty 2.5. I prefer the Nitty Gritty. As said above it is quieter, and is semi-automatic (you have to manually pump the fluid), for same price as VPI 16.5. It is more compact and aesthetically pleasing. It fits on a 12" shelf. VPI is large and ugly, looks like a box with an acrylic lid.
They both do an equally fine job cleaning records.

16.5/RRL. Call Galen Carol or look his site up. Bets prices.

I'm considering the SOTA, actually. Currently using a NG 2.5 Fi but only in vac mode. Hearing protection required.

I know your budget, but the best cost more. I have had the VPI and Nitty Gitty machines. None compare with the Loricraft string machine.