LP care


I've made the commitment to get back into vinyl, purchasing a VPI Classic 'table with Lyra Delos cartridge. routed through an ARC PH-5 to Ayre amplification and on to Vandy 5A's. Recognizing the importance of a quality RCM, I also bought a VPI 16.5, so all the basic elements for vinyl enjoyment are there. (Approximately one week until everything arrives and can be set up!)

With all that lengthy background, my question is: what are the most effective record cleaning fluids. I have to admit that I am getting high-centered over the range of choices: regular cleaning fluid, "deep" cleaning fluid, enzymatic cleaner, rinses, etc. etc. etc.

This is especially topical for me, as 80+% of the albums I will be playing have been in storage (and not always perfectly clean storage at that) for 2-3 decades. Plus other music I want to acquire is probably only going to be available used, so good cleaning is important for that, too.

Second question: I assume that once one has cleaned a record with a vacuum RCM, that it remains relatively clean and doesn't need RCM treatment for every listening; instead, it simply needs to be wiped with a brush to remove dust and static before playing (assuming nothing odd happens). True?

Sorry for the long question, but figure the more detail I give, the more useful input I'll get. I'm hoping to tap the expertise of those on this forum -- and please feel free to simply point me to existing material, either in the form of previous threads here or other on-line resources.

Thanks to all, and happy listening!
dawgfish

Showing 3 responses by dan_ed

I'll see your Spin Clean and raise you a DIY RCM that spins by hand. Cost me about $75. ;-) The fluids are what do the work, but nothing replaces vacuuming the crud off.

As to the other part of the OP's questions. I find that new LPs usually need but one good cleaning. Used LPs can take two, sometimes three cleanings. After that, assuming the vinyl is kept in quality sleeves, I MAY clean an LP again after a year or so. If the LP gets a lot of play I may clean it again after 6 months or so.

Anybody want a Perfection Steamer? I was a proponent of steam for a time. A 10 minute enzyme soak showed me that it wasn't getting things as clean as I had thought.

I use AIVS (dealer disclaimer) because it works very well for me.
That will never work, Wolfy. Every knows that when you spin the record it creates its own gravity field and that holds all of the particles of crud tight to the surface.

MAkes about as much sense as your "Nature abhors a vacuum" statement. ;-)
I'm thinking a little lime juice and tequila would make that dirty water go down easier. And we ain't talking about the Charles here. :-)