Record Cleaning Machine - Loricraft PRC-3 vs. 4?

Tough question. I wrestled with the same until I found a used PRC-4 Delux and bought it. They are great machines and with the right fluids, extremely effective.

Mike, I also have a PRC-4 Deluxe. I like it for all the reasons you mention, though I never use the reverse switch as I find putting the wand on the other side of the label accomplishes the same thing. My final pure water rinse for example is done with the wand starting at the outer groove (as you would playing an LP) traveling to the label and then from the label to the outer groove on the other side which achieves two things: a double dry cycle, one in each direction.

Could you explain how the more powerful pump works faster? I always thought the speed was the same (roughly 72 rpm) for all the models.

You are welcome, Mike. I have since added the AIVS No. 15 as a first step. It is another enzyme step and is well worth the time/effort. I also use two rinses, so the AIVS 3-step for me is actually 5-steps. Crazy, I know.

Dev, on very few occasions, my want skips about 1/16th of an inch about 3/4" in from the outside edge only when I do the first enzyme step. This happens about 1 in 30 times. I don't know why. I just redo the outer one inch and move to the next step. I think it might have something to do with the magnet drive under the arm base skipping somehow. Have you tried contacting Loricraft? I have not bothered.

Hiendmuse, I use zero tracking force. I find that the suction is enough to pull the arm to the LP and vacuum up all of the fluid.

Thanks Hiendmuse. I'll give it a try. As I recall, I was at 2.5 grams and the skipping happened more often and more near the label. Performance is now more consistent, but it's time to experiment again. I appreciate the suggestion.

Well stated Syntax. Could you comment on whether or not the Monks gets the records any cleaner than the Loricraft? I've never read a direct comparison. One issue for me is that I use four fluids in five steps and the Monks automatic tanks can't accommodate that many different fluids and applicators. I also don't like the idea of an automatic fluid dispenser scrubbing the LP surface. So despite the higher quality of the Monks (kind of like a Porsche versus an MG), I prefer the manual application method and simplicity of the Loricraft, not to mention the cost.

Great news, Dan! Join the club. I assume you will be using the AIVS fluid system. How many steps? I added the No. 15 as a pre soak to the standard 3-step plus an extra final pure water rinse. Great results. Enjoy listening to more of the music from now on.