Alex, to answer your question directly; no, you don't need a RCM. A RCM does a good job and saves lots of time. On the other hand, is expensive. I clean mine by hand and in a direct comparision, I think my records are cleaner. I use a combination of Audio Intelligence (enzyme) and RRL cleaners with MoFi brushes. I think the "scrubbing" I can apply is more vigorous than what can be accompolished on a RCM. Also, I use a simple setup for vacuuming: A wet/dry vac with a 4 in. nozzle which I cover with a cotton cloth. Of course, it's more of a chore and takes longer than a RCM machine could do.
But, like I've said before, if you want your car REALLY clean, do you just drive through somewhere of do you do it yourself by hand in your driveway??
But, like I've said before, if you want your car REALLY clean, do you just drive through somewhere of do you do it yourself by hand in your driveway??