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What do I need to effectively clean my records

I have some new and used records that are in need of cleaning. I'd like to buy some materials I can use from home, and I don't have space or money for a cleaning machine. I took a couple to the local store and cleaned them on the VPI there, didn't seem to do much. A guy there recommended I buy a more effective cleaning solution and stiffer brush, but then another guy said a stiff brush would damage the records. I read the post about the sketchy "spot remover" type cleaner being used, but I'd like something guaranteed not to harm the records or my rig. I keep hearing about Last, both the cleaner and protectant. Is the protectant worth it?

I'm a total novice. I have only a dry brush. Can I get some advice on exactly what to buy and how to clean: brands of cleaners, what to scrub with, what to dry with, how to clean them (use circles? brush inside to outside? how vigorously?). It sounds silly, but where do I set the records to dry? Also, should I buy replacement audiophile sleeves (which ones) to keep my really nice records in? Is a separate stylus cleaner necessary?
matt8268

Showing 2 responses by dougdeacon

dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Matt,

There are a couple of (nearly endless) threads on this topic. Here's the most recent one.

http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?eanlg&1056412450&openflup&18&4#18

Read the whole thread for an education, or look for a (very long) post by '4yanx'. His routine is either insane or remarkably thorough, depending on your POV. The cleaning solutions he uses are well regarded around here and available from amusicdirect.com and others.

Everyone seems to agree that vacuuming is essential to get the crud off the disc after it's suspended in the cleaning solution. If you don't have a RCM there are other/cheaper ways to vacuum, some of which are described on the thread above by people with more experience than me.

You can find still more information on an even longer thread named 'record playing rituals'. That's assuming the first thread hasn't already driven you screaming back to the CD player!
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Chris Brady (A'gon handle = Teres) also posted his DIY RCM info somewhere here. Can't remember where, but it involved a second hand TT and thrift store vacuum cleaner. Cost him < $50 IIRC.
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