Over the years, I have tried virtually every commercially available record cleaning fluid and myriad home brews. Ive read the accounts and experiences of others regarding most all of them, too. One person will swear by Product A, swearing that is spanks, smokes, embarrasses, whatever, Product B. Meanwhile, Product B users will be equally as adamant in their support for their favorite, and are certain that it obliterates, blows away, devastates, whatever, Product A. One set of users will say that Product A leaves residue. Some will say Product C leaves a sonic signature. Others will say dont use Product D, it has alcohol. Counterpoints will say alcohol is safe. Youll hear that the fluid must flow evenly across the record to reach into the grooves. And, youll also hear that whether it beads up or not doesnt make a difference, its doing its job. Foam is good. Foam is bad. Scrub hard. Be gentle. Vacuum is a must. Air drying is okay. Distilled water only. No, add Photo-flo. No, again, use purified water. Oy! Nuff ta make yer hade spin!
Now, I really dont care what anyone else uses, while others seem to take it as a personal affront if you DONT use what they use. I have concerns about various products, but I dont really care any more if others dont. What you need to do is a little research, a little auditioning, and then choose what works best for you.
For me the choice was and is clear. I looked for the over all best balance of cleansing effectiveness, safety, ease of use, purity, and removability with the opinion that a few occasional clicks and pops are the worst thing in the world, anyway. I, like many others, use Record Research Labs Deep Cleaner and Super Vinyl Wash. I dont bury my head in the sand but, rather, try those products coming along that would seem to compete. Ive not found one yet that best it when considering the criteria that are important to me.
Good luck in your search, Kel34. Above all savor the sound of vinyl when you listen.
