How best to clean old 78s.


Well, this is the first time I'm posting in the analog forum. I was wondering if you could help a poor, unenlightened digital format guy.

A friend of mine knows someone that has inherited a collection of old 78 records from circa 1920. They had been stored away, but like anything that's been in existence that long [I guess that would include my dad] they're not in optimum playing condition.

Can you offer some recommendations as to how to clean and/or to a certain extent restore these old records? Would it be much different from your regular cleaning routine?

I apologize for the vague question as I don't know the exact condition of these 78s. I'm told they probably won't be played back on a high end system either.

Thanks in advance,
Dean
gunbei

Showing 1 response by sugarbrie

At least get a turntable that can handle a modern cartridge, so you don't ruin the records. There are a few budget cartridges that still have 78 styli available.

Ortofon OM stereo cartridges start at $25; the 78 styli is another $39. This way you can play regular LP's with the same cartridge.

The Shure 78 cartridge is the M78S for $59.

Stanton and Grado also offer 78 styli for some model cartridges.

Try www.garage-a-records.com for any supplies, cleaner, cartridges, styli.

Dual Turntables from Germany are decent. Many play at 78 speed. Many used ones available really cheap on eBay. I have a Dual 1219 that I use for 78's and for poor condition 45's and 33's that I just want to listen to.

If the records are very dirty, then maybe warm water with a little dishwashing liquid to start off, before professional cleaner for deep cleaning.