Threaders : Do yourself a favor invest in a hand held consumer steamer unit and get to work steaming your LPs. Regardless of which method you choose mine(koz its so much cheaper) ,or mapleshades the results will please your ears. For those of you who already have LP collections and record cleaning machines add a hand steamer combining the effectiveness of both to getting the groves as clean as possible. The less grime between the stylas and the grove the greater the listening experience. Just remember nothing can bring back a damaged grove or LP. You can clean it ridding it of gunkey noise...Not abuse. |
Cello : Thanks Larry for the suggestion. According to the Water Thread Grade 1 can be purchased @ Whole Foods , a health oriented supermarket nearby to me. I shall buy a Gal. and advise on the results. |
Threaders:
Record Steam Cleaning has been my passion for 15 years. My record steaming ideas have been published in Listener , Stereophile and Positive Feedback. Michael Fremer was referred to me by Art Dudley ; our email exchanges resulted in his article & recommendation for the Hot Shot Sream Cleaner , as well as subsequent articles on record cleaning (2/06) in Stereophile where he did attribute the steam cleaning method to me in print.
I have never sought any financal gain from my ideas. I have always been more interested in the acknowledgement and giving away those ideas so others can reap the benefits , particularly LP folks. What others do is fine and maybe I should reconsider giving away my ideas but not today.
A few years ago I shaired my record cleaning methods with "The East Coast Audiophile Society" a loosely formed group of Audio-Heads; Pierre Spray learned of my work thru his friendship with the group. We share mutual friends all of whom have auditioned steam cleaning or use the process on to enhanse the listening experience. Please note that while I have spoken to Mr. Spray in the past, we have never discussed "The Phonophile Deep-Cleaning System" (...I wish he would have given me a call E-Jass has my #).
Cleaning records with a hand held consumer steam cleaner has advantages over all other record cleaning devices, mainly because most skim the surface or vaccum top surfaces but not deeply into the LP grove.
Steam Cleaning on the other hand projects a head of steam directly , deep into the record groves softening any accmulated gunk for easy removal. Should you wish to get Steaming, here is what you shall require in terms of stuff to start along with my recommendations:
I personally use Peak deionized & demineralized super-pure water that I purchase from Pep Boys @ $4.00 per Gal. For lots of reasons I do not use tap or distilled water. An excellent thread on Water exisits on Audiogon-please read it. I no longer use the Hot Shot 350A. Currently, I highly recommend the Perfection Hand Steamer that can be purchased @ Walgreens for $30.00. I find the Perfection does everything the Hot Shot does only far better and cheaper. Of course you can use any steaming unit you choose , but I do feel the Perfection is the way to go. As for micro cloths & brushes take your pick dozens to choose from. I personally developed a device that de-statics and drys that is not presently for sale. Initially, I used soft 100% cotten hand cloths and a 2 1/2" Purdy paint brush , but I've moved on to a Static Wisk model # SW-140, a scientific cleaning brush from www.kinetronics.com that my buddy Barry gave me. I believe that Anti-Static Brush costs $30 bucks. As brushes go the Prudy's are hard to beat but they have no anti-static properties at $9.00 a pop. Record cleaning liquids abound and can cost next to nothing to Mega bucks. I use Disc Dr. Products but home-made brew works just as well.
While I put the record cleaning liquid directly on record, Pierre claims to have developed a cleaner that goes into the steaming unit. I am personally weary of putting anything other than H2O into any steamer. While the Mapleshade product may well be able to handel the cleaner , I know of no steaming unit on the market that does not void its warranty by placing any liquid other than water into its heating tank. Some go as far as to caution that explosion COULD occurr. I don't know and don't want to find out. Lawyers and Law Suits drain Mula from my audio account. I think Pierre has mo'green in case of explosion but so many respect his opinion sometimes you might go on trust...Oh well.
As for the process its quite simple. First, you bring the steamer to a head of steam. Using eye and hand protection hold the LP away from your body and face,and steam the groves of the LP. Gently wipe with a soft cloth of choice, re-steam with a liquid record cleaner that has been spread/lightly scrubed with a record cleaning brush re-steam , lightly dry and steam again to remove any residue of the cleaner before hand drying. That's it ... Unless you own a record cleaning machine (RCM) as I do. I combine the two as to steam , vaccum/clean , steam ,vaccum/clean, steam and dry. Using both methods a steamer and RCM cleans lp to perfection. One disclamer : Steam Cleaning can not remove manufacturing defects or prior owner inflicted abuse to a recording. Gunk can go but nothing can save deep gouges and scratches.
Try Steaming my way or his for $150. Either works. Good Steaming To All !! |
Threaders: The web site now reflects the term rinse rather than cleaner. To the best of my knowledge, a rinse solution other than pure H2O is also prohibited ,via the manufactures comments from being put inside a heating tank. Should the rinse solution now be pure H2O (Water) why not mention that fact. |
Threaders :
I purchased a SteamFast Steam Cleaner for $36.71 via the Wal-Mats Web Site. When the unit is delivered (in about a week) I'm going to give it a work-out on a couple LPs.I will let you know if a few bucks buys you a substantial improvement over the Perfection: Who knows I maybe be throwing my money away. Nevertheless, all hand steamers work producing steam. |
|
Threaders:
Should any of you require the exact steamer as noted on the Mapleshade Web Site , may I suggest viewing www.wal mart.com. Query, Steam Cleaners : The SteamFast Hand Held Steam Cleamer SF-227 has the identical front-end selling for $35US , inc. shipping & handeling.
For someome that demands continuious steaming times of 25 minutes rather 12-20, the SteamDart can be found on the internet for $70 plus S&H. The choice of Steamer options is up to you. |
Hi Neil :
Thank you for reading the Thread. Neil, I have a feeling that perhaps you have a better verson of the Hot Shot than I .
What I observed was that my Hot Shot unit would throw a splat of hot water out of the nozzel for a mil-a-second whenever I pressed the trigger. I compensated for what I felt to be as a problem by "shooting" the unit (with or without the nozzel) into a folded over towel before starting a project.
When I first used the Hot Shot the splatter thing was not a big deal, only following hours of useage. I use the Hot Shot to lessen household tasks and it works just fine, its just that that S&S would sometimes wet unprotected LP labels something I try to avoid.
In regards to the Perfection Steam Cleaner, that unit has yet to splatter & splurt. In my opinion, the steam mist from the Perfection is finer with greater head of steam pressure than the Hot Shot 350 version # A. Taking off the nozzel the Perfection produces a controlled "tear-drop" of steam that seems to me to have better defined boundaries, ie no splatter & splurt and longer steaming times.
I note that quality control issues for the Perfection units have occurred : A steamer emailed me stating that his first unit was defective. It was returned to Walgreens and replaced . That person sayz he feels the Perfection is easier to use, holding a head of steam longer than his Hot Shot. His observations are the same as mine. I recall that Michael Freemer complained to me via email over the short steaming times for the Hot Shot. When I emailed him recently about the Perfection his response seemed to be that steaming times didn't really matter to him anymore.
Today, I am awaiting the delivery of a SteamFast that I believe to be identical to the unit sold by Mapleshade in its steam cleaning package for $150US. We will wait an' see if its money well spent or down the drain.
Neil, If your Hot Shot is operating well with a tight head of steam , go for it. Get Steamed and enjoy the results... I think your use of a dish thinger for drying LPs is a smart idea. Keep'im Comming |
Belyin: I regret mentioning that a run or two in the dish washer will greatly reduce that smell of plastic in the nozzel that is not imparted to the vinyl. Love the fact the records sound great ! Keep the The Revolution (that's a Beatle thing) going. |
Threaders:
In late Oct. I mentioned that I purchased another steamer from WalMart that I know to be identical to the one offered by Mapleshade. It is included in the record cleaning package they are selling for $150.
WalMart's Web Site claims they shall notify you by email when the unit arrives. What they failed to doctument is that having your "pop-up blocker" on the email does not come thru to you.
Today, after Days of calls I learned the steaming unit was @ my local WalMart and despite hours of telephone efforts the 'Mart never notified me . Go figure. Today, I shall pick-up the steamer and let you'all know if the results were worth all the trouble. |
Threaders: My initial results with the SteamFast SF-227 are positive. The steamer costs $35 @ Walmart's Web Site, consumes 900 watts, holds 10oz of distilled/super-pure water and provides up to 13 minutes of continious steam flow. It quickly produces a powerful shot of super-heated steam ; safety is a must, not an option. The unit does produce a more powerful blast of steam than the Perfection but how much is over-kill is best determined by you. I think the Perfection Steam Cleaner is a best buy ; should already have one or other steamers use and bask with the results. If not ,the SF-227 may be an option for LP Cleaning. Should you use the SF-227 or any other Steam Cleaner please post your experience with us. |
Threaders:
I continue to be satisified with the Steamfast SF-227 that can be had on line from WalMart: I did visit Walgreens confirming that they were offering the rebate exactly as Badboss reported. How long the rebate continues I do not know. The Perfection certianly is the "best buy" and does work "perfectly".
Right now , KMart/Sears are selling the SharkSteamer for $35: from appearences the product seems to be quite capable of cleaning LPs; the only stat published on the box highlighted that it consumes 1000 watts.
For fun, I am testing "rinsers". I never pour rinsers into the steamer for the sake of your/my safety. Rather, I spray them or paint then on the LP , later to be steamed off. No conclusive results to mention , a combo of superpure H2O/white vinegar (30-1 , 20-1 or 10-1 ratio) does seen to be the way to go.
From your emails I appologize if I confused you regarding weither steam cleaning is be performed evertytime an LP is played . The answer is No. Usually one cleaning is all that is required , unless you live in a super dusty enviorment or the LP is subjected to gunk. Replacing the inner-sleve with a rice paper variety helps to assure the disc remains clean . |
Belyin: I did reuse the Hot Shot ; no matter what caution I had with the fill-line, it still "S&S'ed" several times. |
Herman: LPs are a blessed curse from the Audio Gods. They can sound like glass screaching across concrete or calm the beast within. As the 0&1 world of audio took off analog was shoved off into the corner. And why not? Records generally sound inferior to CDs koz of noise that you could "lower" but never really eliminate.
Steam Cleaning , done correctly can really help bring life into a LP. How much depends on the audio system & condition of the records just to name a few challenges. H, thanks for taking the time to give this thread a read. |
Johnnyb53: Its good to know that steam cleaning has made a positive improvement on your audio life.
The method you are using is cost effective . May I suggest another cost effective improvement ? The KAB Ev-1 Pro. Record Cleaner , a down & dirty Nitty Gritty Top (129.us), www.kabusa.com , is the cheapest version of a vaccum cleaning unit. That's if you already own a vaccum cleaner for the home that can be attached to make it work. The combination of steaming & vaccuming is just as good as it gets.
The added advantage is you suck off the stuff solutions 'an steam have released from the vinyl. Micro-cloths do make a difference --I use them also to dry.
Welcome to the Steaming Club. We need new converts to pass the word to vinyl-heads. Save your greenbucks for more used vinyl! |
Threaders:
A 'Goner emailed me detailing his use of a conventional steam iron resulting in the warping of a vintage LP. Learn from this experience , never use a steam iron in lieu of a hand held steam cleaner. The heat footprint is far too large, causing the vinyl to absorb excessive heat and warp. Always use a hand held steam cleaner, always a safe bet for you and your record collection. |
"Let the one who is without error and sin cast the first stone", Jesus Christ.
Good words to live by especially in the realm of ideas good and not so good.
Steaming has its limits , the consequences become more understandable when experimentation demostrates that what you get is not what you wanted. No need for tags or flames, just knowledge. That way , we learn together some quicker but we learn together in-fellowship . No more, no less. |
Hiffile:
Remember its always the journey ...
1. That's a variable from 1" to 3", the SF-227 has a Lot of Steam Power--Keep a vinyl-type glove on your hands for safety sake. The 227 can leave a scalding red streak should you overlap your hand.
2. Holding the LP on an angle facing away from your face and body, spray the groves in a circular motion. Top to bottom or reverse doesn't really matter just watch the label. Always wipe it dry or cover with a circular piece of vinyl, I use a "give-away" jar opener.
3. Yes, a vinyl-type covering over all the frame works for me. Soft and non-abrasive.
4. Some air dry and some do not. Using an extremely soft micro cloth seems to be the perferred method of those who do not combo with a RCM. Soft is the perference, just a slight wipe once or twice , allow air drying for several minutes depending on your home enviorment.
Thank you for the kind words. I only hope that what we have diccussed will enhanse your listening experience. |
Readers : I have come across a Microfiber polishing cloth that appears to be significantly better than most cloths on the market. The Flitz 4 star Microfiber Polishing Cloth, www.Flitz.com , is made of Starfiber @ Microfiber; threads are 100 times finer than human hair, absorbs 4 times its weight in liquid and reportly works "electostatically". The cloths are sized from 12x12", 16x16" and 21x24" and range in price from $5.00 to $9.00. The cloths appear to be a perfect mate to our steaming efforts for a fraction of the cost others would charge for similar, but not as superior a product. |
Threaders: Walgreens continues to sell the Perfection Steam Cleaner for $30 less a $10 rebate, that's $20; a best buy in my book. |
Headsnappin: The simplest way is steam, then scrubb with Lp cleaning solution on a revolving RCM,vacuum,steam again to remove all cleaning solution,vacuum again and allow to dry or use a microfiber cloth.
The combo action is using the best of both worlds steam and vacuum : You blast, clean 'an scrubb & suck off the grunge that gets in the way of listening pleasure. Don't let anybody fool you , should you have a RCM use it , your investment is enhansed . |
Ghosthouse: For years I have been using demineralized and distilled H2O super pure water manufactured by Peak as battery water. I formerly purchased another product no longer on store shelves;however,according to the customer rep for Peak, they also manufactured that product for a 3rd party distributer that was identical to the current manufacturing standards for Peak Battery Water. I purchase Peak @ Pep Boys Auto for $4.00 per Gal.
According to another Thread on Water below ours, Whole Foods Organic Stores sell a in-store water product possibly superior to Peak for significantly less $, provided you supply the container. All the Best in the New Year - Charlie |
Taper : Thank you for the kind words. As the year comes to a close, just a mention of the following to Taper&Friends:
I believe Steam Cleaning is creating a grass-roots revolution of LP owners that is evolving to revive LP recordings to remarkable listening levels.
Steam Cleaning is cost effective, demonstrating that it is competitive to any other cleaning method in the market place. Steaming Cleaning method can stand on its own but for those with RCM's it makes no sence to discard a useful machine made so much more effective in combination with Steam Cleaning.
Hand held steam cleaning is no fluke. It is a process/method that was created & designed and used with great sucess for over a decade. It was an idea I did not exploit for gain , rather an idea I shaired with other Lp'ers to spread the joy of what was possible out of decades old/new recordings. Steam Cleaning is an idea and process that has been discussed in many of our most respected audio magazines for that value of the idea and process, not for profit.
In today's world superior steam cleaning machines abound to what had been available and at low cost. I continue to feel the"Perfection"is a best buy although the "SteamFast SF-227" has a more powerful blast of steam. But, what ever handheld steamer(sans garment units/steam irons)one uses will get the job done. Personally, I am coming to believe blasting power is something that one wants to vary depending upon the condition of the Lp.
A new Lp has a different set of cleaning conditions/values than a used recording. For instance, a fellow steamer emailed that he rarely uses anything other than pure steam on new records. He sez that he feels H2O removes most processing greases with just a moment or two of steaming.
The evolution of Steam Cleaning has exposed an achilles heel in the Record Cleaning Industry -- record cleaning solutions. I feel that it is a true gift of alchemy to create a record cleaning solution that does not leave some layer of materal a "sonic fingerprint" to shroud the listening experience , irrespective of the claims of the manufacture. Anyone that has Steamed Cleaned and played an LP understands what the manufactures have yet to learn.
So as we end this year and begin another lets work together to bring Lp cleaning to greater heights.
Remember its the journey... Happy Season -- Charlie |
Readers: A trip to Walgreens revealed that they continue to offer a $10 rebate on the Perfection Steamer($20). For those of you that have not "steamed" but want to, please buy before the rebate offer is over. |
Jbaussie : You made my New Year's Eve with such a positive email, thank you .
J: Steam Cleaning is based on science not hype. In terms of Lp cleaning, that means anyone who chooses to follow the process (and respects Steam Cleaning from a safety point of view) can expect the same positive results that I have enjoyed for years for a fraction of the cost associated with record cleaning.
We must always remember, the industry has "educated" we Lp'ers to expect Instant Karma by cleaning from a liquid in a bottle , a machine or brush costing BIG bucks. But thats only a small part of the story. Cleaners and machines all have a place in the arsenal of record cleaning aids; the real story is " what do your ears tell you " and that is priceless .
Be assured I'm science-type person with room for inspiration and innovation. I love those black discs and I have been experimenting with remarkable ideas that compliment steaming bringing more musical enjoyment to folks like you and I.
Recently, I have had several break-thru's that I must re-test to make certian they are ready for "Prime Time". Till then, keep the revolution going. |
UK friends, I hope a store is close to sondale's residence. I still intend to follow-up on the exact wall wart for the SF 227. |
Stelkor : Thanks you for the remarks and Q's.
1. As time goes on and I receive more emails from Steamers
and I am learning from their experiences.
Several Steamers report excellent results cleaning Lps on the RCM's. I too have lately experimented with their suggestions; I agree that in most cases one can steam clean effectively on the RCM turntable.The RCM turntable and surroundings can get very wet may need a careful wiping off.
It is my observation the physical action of steam hitting the groves is the catalysist that releases contaminates .That release is accelerated by a record cleaning solution following the initial steam. Remember, to always steam-off the record cleaning solution following a good scrub and vac on a RCM , or you will defeat the purpose of getting the vinyl as free of sonic fingerprints(residue) as possible. Some steamers forgo the vac in favor of micro-cloths reporting similar results. Personally, I use both and would never give my RCM.
The exception to cleaning on a RCM rather than initially by hand, appears more directed to recordings that visually exhibit greasey-type smuges/fingerprints or organic-type grunge. Stuff one may find on second-hand LPs; the steam control issues may become more important regarding a "45 degree angle" for removing gunk for the dirter-than-thou LPs than the mint-. Again , to clean on a RCM is a choice not than absolute rule. My preference is to use all options depending on my naked-eye observation and wipe-up the slightly wetter RCM at clean-up time.
I feel , the shorter the distance from the steam cleaning unit to the LP the better. With the Perfection I do use the 6" cone attachment sometimes but no other. My experience had been the steam tends to cool down in the hose attachments sometimes causing a water build up in the hose that streams out when you initially pull the trigger to the Steamer. That is not what I want and that happens far less using the shortest distance between the heating tank and the vinyl surface.
2. The hole issue one is new on me. My practice is to avoid getting the label wet by applying a cover -- I use a give away circular vinyl jar opener to cover the label.
Stelkor, what you have aluded to has been discussed personally with me; that some LPs seem "expand" after cleaning then return to normal size.
I know of one scientist who has related that he believes some vinyl compounds retain heat longer than other vinyl compounds . However, following extensive listening , he deserned no playback problems. Personally, I have read a couple of articles that suggest recently cleaned Lps (cleaned on RCMs) "rest" for a period of 30 minutes or more, and claims the LPs sound "better" when rested for a day . I can only relate that of all the LPs I have cleaned one or two 1950's Verves really did sound improved with a rest.
But Stelkor let me make this clear,in all the years of steaming have I never damaged a record by steaming. Bad turntable management Yes , Steaming ? No.
Cheers , Charlie |
Borst: According to the Peak reps the Peak Battery Water is the same as as I mentioned earlier even if it does not state "super pure". |
Headsnappin: The Whole Foods water was recommended on a water thread below and was mentioned here. A stop at a local Medical Ctr. for a heart Defib has delayed me from going to my local Whole Foods -- That's on my do list. |
Bosrt: Thank you for the kind heart support and appreciation for Steam Cleaning.
B, records(new/used) cost big bucks from speciality businesses around the country. I certianly support the notion that some folks have chosen to make a living from the black orbs; good for them. But, we also prefer alternatives. Steaming turns many a Goodwill find to not only playable but on par with the higher priced goods; provided one is educated to understand the difference between a "dirty gem" and a Lp not worth a cent.
Bosrt, I don't your feelings, but I feel cheated of my money when I read critical comments printed by some Audio Mag's relating that cleaning LPs is a drag. Some writers even go farther to complain of "surface noise" from a certian cart without even making an attempt to be assured the noise isn't coming from the LP. Steam Cleaning makes a huge difference all things being equal at a very modest outlay of $$ -- Thanks for being a part of the revolution. |
Ghostthouse : As stated I have Never encountered the issue . The dialog between myself and a sciencific guy relating to record cleaning at large was his opinion that was favorable. The articles I have read related to RCM cleaning only rather than steam cleaning. I have personally cleaned thousands of LPs in my collection both RCM only and with steam and I have never encountered an issue with a LP center hole. I am not suggesting that it can not happen only that my experience has never led to that challenge. My VPI has a threaded center-pin with a threaded top-piece. My VPI's center-pin has never impeded the placement of a Lp on the turntable or subsequently on my record player.I have been cleaning records for nearly 4 decades (brushes , RCM's & later steam) as have my friends and as far as I am aware none have had that problem nor have I or anyone I know had a problem with holding a LP for cleaning. I'm not saying never only never in my collective experience. |
Minkwelder : Correct. The product is red in color and does resemble a "a teapot". Should you already own a steam cleaner, use it as long as the product is in working order. Please be mindful that a good water source is a must. I use Peak Battery Water sold nationally @ Pep Boys for $3-4 per Gal. Any "Q's" feel free to email me. All the best. Charlie |
Readers : I recently attended a gathering of audio designer types fresh from the CES. It was expressed that I had been criticized by some industry-types in Europe stating that my advice on this Thread to use of all record cleaners from home-brew to $$$ for steam cleaning, greatly under-estimated the effectiveness of (high cost) record cleaning products and machines.
The critics reportly said I failed to appreciate facts showing some (high priced) cleaners were far more effective than steam cleaning. Not surprizing none of the critics were in attendance, but their strong comments made it across the Atlantic.
In fairness, I was reminded that some in the Record Cleaning Industry (in Europe and elesewhere) may feel threatened by me giving away a Record Cleaning Process costing thousands of Euors less that represents a threat to their market share.
Friends, I plead guilty. I plead guilty to attempting to spread a Record Cleaning Process that doesn't cost thousands and works as well or better , very much better. I plead guilty to spreading the word and not for profit. And, I believe that the more we know the better choices/options are available. Ok, where do I serve my time ? London, Berlin , Paris , Milan or Rome ? Now, that's a way to start a revolution. |
Dear Steamers , Thanks , but despite the beauty of Europe I prefer to stay home to do my time. Please stay tuned and please keep doctumenting the revolution by your remarks. Steaming causes no harm as recommended , and isn't quite discs what we all want ?
Lots to offer...You could be quite surprized at the other ideas I wish to share with the Analog Community.
Enought for now , but a hint ... my relations are inventors and have been granted patients ... thinking / inventing is a part of what we (I) do. This is normal for us but I am certianly the exception in many ways.
Thanks to all who try new ideas ... Charlie |
Readers : I have been continuing to Steam coupling the use of specialized Harmless Bacteria that consume organic materials found on surfaces and the groves of the recordings.
Experimental results far exceed what I initially believed possible. More to come and some notations on bacteria cleaning placed on other Record Cleaning/fluids Threads. More to come. |
Ghosthouse : Contact me by email |
Oilmanmojo: I am humbeled by your recommendation.
I know that you have advanced tangencial arms by light years , and I feel of all the folks that have local-cred you are # 1.
This steam cleaning process is so far ahead of the commerical products they can never catch up. Althought, in the regular discource is haven't recommended multiable steamings, I know that a second cleaning exceeds what can be pondered by one step only. Recently, I was given a 1,000+ record collection of 1st edition tube/soild state LPs fron the 1960's. For a few weeks I have been working on selected copies of origional Stones, Doors and Hendrix besides hundreds that I aquired.
Steaming with or without RCM's is fantasik , I thank the God for giving me the insite . A clean LP played by a good playback system is a gift from above. |
FYI : I have been looking for a record cleaning brush that would full-fill any issues related to cleaning Lp groves. Previously , I note a find in the @ Dollar Store , a back scrubber that did appear to be a "Best Find" for one $.
I now believe that the company "Quickie" has a superior back brush attached to a "Y" revolving arm that can be separated from that "Y" . The brisels are superior to any other I have found and the cost is under $5.00. Look for it in your grocery market. |
Jan : The consumer hand held steam cleaners that most "steamers" use are of a different type ; they vagely resemble a tea pot with an elongated spout and are for sale all over the internet and local stores.
The garmet steamers can be used but with great caution because they spread the heated zone on the LP to the point that some folks have reported warping . The "secret" to the tea pot type is the fact only steam splashes the LP not excessive heat eliminating the warping factor. Now, I'm not saying several steamers haven't been sucessful with garmet steamers only that chances are that warping MAY occur.
As for DIY record cleaning fluids, the internet abounds with formulas. The important factor is water type. Jan, never put the cleaning fluid in the steamer , only "paint" the LP with the fluid. The cleaner the H2O (read reagent type) all the better. If you have not please read the complete thread , lots of important tips are shaired, the do's and don'ts of record cleaning. Also the water threads are important. Kinda like can't go fishing without a rod , line and hook, same thinking applies to record steaming.
Please remember steaming can not remove owner abuse or manufacturing defects that are at times very hearable with a clean recording. All the best |
Sondale, I have taken the oppertunity to contact the Steamfast manufacturer and will share the response as soon as possible. Take Care , Charlie |
Sondale, Thanks for all the kind words...It means a lot to me. I have received a voice-mail response. They said that international plug-on' wall-warts are ok. Unfortunately, the message didn't leave a clue to the exact unit to buy. Maybe that's my problem for not being more specific. We shall find out for I left a message for further info.
FYI :My Dad to his passing expressed love for the "English" as he prepaired for the Normandy . Surely, I can do no less in honor of Dad and you than get a clear answer .
God save Your Queen, Charlie |
Sondale(Alan), Thanks for the kind words , nothing better than to know I assisted a fellow LP person. All the best. Charlie |
Jsmoller, It does appear you have located a water-source suitable for steam cleaning records. The water product you found will certianly keep the steamer from clogging and producing a head of steam relatively free of water borne "junk". All the Best |
Friends, As In have outlined before, "the water source one uses has a direct relationship to the results". Some steamers have reported excellent results with scientific "super pure" water products that can be pricey and other threads detail lots of other folks positive experiences.
For my money, I use a water product that has been distilled,R/O'ed,demineralized and deionized ; a battery water product called Peak and sold @ Pep Boys in the USA. I'm sure other similar products abound outside the states only I do not know where they are sold. Many persons email me they have no other source other than distilled , so go figure. I suggest use what you have and always be on the look out for a higher-grade replacement. |
Larryi : I can understand your view point and from that mind-set its hard to see where this thread has anything to offer you. Steam Cleaning is not for everyone and neither are RCM's. For some the use of a dry, static-free brush is all they prefer to use. And that's the way it should be-- options for all. I wish you well. |
You guys are choking me up ... I have never felt more honored that to know I have made brothers/sisters around the country/world that are enjoying there record collections more because of steam cleaning. Really, after attempting to share my ideas for sooo long and now to find so many who are learing to re-love there record collections... Money doesn't mean a thang ... Lets keep it going, Charlie |
According to Jim, its the water product to use cleaning LPs and should be used in all steam cleaning applications. As for # 3 ,I suppose, the correct answer is that commmerical applications also use R/O + water.
As I have noted before, many folks have said that they can not find anything but distilled water in there hometowns. If that is so,than use what you can find and improve when you locate a water upgrade. Should your steaming tank show signs of grime build-up, replace the unit to be on the safe side. |
As soon as I find a buyer for the idea which in all
likelyhood isn't going to happen soon. I guess that other units are probably out there in the East but I have not seen one yet.
The unit destatics , spins, drying both sides using a high-speed fan , brushes & drying rims in a unique configuration. Kinda like a a spinning hair dryer , zero-stat machine . And yes "It" works. I can't show it since I don't oun a patent and its orgins are not just unique to "Em-wa". |
Steam, properly applied with the cleanest water available can remove most if all manufacturing residues. The application of record fluids may make that cleaning more efficient , but steam is a powerful cleaner unto itself. Its important to utilize safety percautions , follow cleaning proceedures as outlined in the thread and understand no cleaning process can remove manufacturing defects and scratches. That said steam cleaning can safely improve the sound of any recording far better than RCM alone. |
Todd, My appology for misunderstanding your query.
I have discussed exactly what you have observed with a few audio fluid designers in the past few years. The consensus of opinion was that some mold release products attract bacteria that actually feed on the mold release product; coupled with inorganics from the manufacturing process , it produces a white "concrete" that "glues" itself to the grove wall. Some fluid companies have done extensive research on removing the stuff relying on enzyimes to break down the compound and alcohol-type liquids to neturalize the bacteria .
Since my conversations were confidential in nature I am hesitant to relay information that may not be complete or breaks trust. But I will say that Audio Intelligent Design Fluids and L. Walker products make a strong case in print they can remove that particular problem.
I have also been attempting to tackel the same issue using a slightly different approach, live patient protected bacteria designed to eat all organic materals. My interest came about after having a LP that seemed to resist every attempt at cleaning. Live bacteria do require certian conditions to thrive and they take at least an hour per side. But, in my case they worked beyond what I felt possible. Right now I am awaiting a shipment of bacteria and I would be happy to send you a sample but I have no way of knowing when company "X" will send me a shipment. Should you feel ok with the wait send me a email or purchase a enzyime based cleaner, use the product and later steam off. Charlie |
