Reddit reviews AudioQuest LP record clean brush

On the first playing the needle cleaned the dust and debris out of the grooves. A record cleaning brush should be part of your collection.

in order to preserve your records, you should always clean your records before playing them. i use a carbon fiber brush, which looks something like this [http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0006VMBHI/ref=redir_mdp_mobile/191-5475366-2593941].

an lp60 will be fine for now, however it is known to have tracking problems, so replacing parts won't really do any good. if you want to collect records in the long term, I suggest you should take a look at a new turntable, maybe the audio technica lp120. as I said before, the lp60 will suffice.

I'm on mobile so the formatting might be dodgy.

edit: you should check out u/adayinalife's response below about the lp60, he knows what he's talking about

It's essential. You'll get one and never look back and never spin an album without a swipe down. 'Blowing off the dust' like one user posted can end up getting more crud on the album from your saliva, etc. Go ahead and order something like this for starters and then you can make your way on up to cleaning supplies.

If you're only seeing large dust particles on the surface but not hearing much in terms of popping and crackling, then I'd go with just a basic carbon fiber brush like this AudioQuest one. If you're new to vinyl and don't already have one, it's a good thing to pick up anyway. It's good practice to brush each side before each spin. While these types of brushes won't clean a truly dirty record, they'll help your clean records stay clean.

If your records are noticeably loud and noisy then you'll probably have to go the route of wet cleaning. I see kits like this one a lot but I don't think they're really worth the money. You can do a better (and cheaper) job with:

• Microfiber Cloths - Run them all through a cycle in your washing machine (just water, no detergent) to get rid of any fuzz.
  
• Isopropyl Alcohol & Distilled Water - Put a solution of 1 part alcohol and 2 parts water into a spray bottle. You could even use as little as 1 to 4, I don't think it makes a huge difference. Make sure to get 90% plus alcohol and avoid any types of additives like menthol.
  
  You can lay one cloth flat to set the record on, spray it down and scrub around lightly with one of the cloths (it can help to dampen this with the distilled water). Personally I like to then dry the record with another cloth, spray it down with just distilled water to rinse it then dry again and repeat on the other side but you can find a method/system that works for you. If you're being super particular about it then remember to flip and replace the cloth the record is on so as not to contaminate the side you just cleaned. Also if you're worried about getting your labels wet, car applicator pads like these actually cover a label almost perfectly and they can also be used in place of a microfiber cloth to scrub the record, they work great.
  
  If you plan on sticking with vinyl for awhile though it's worth it to save up for a SpinClean. I was a skeptic for a long time but I'm glad I finally got one, it really is worth the money. It does a good job, it's well built and it's stupidly easy to use. If $80 seems too steep for a yellow plastic trough (which it really is, unfortunately) there are cheaper models such as this. Doesn't have a lid and comes with different cleaning fluid but it doesn't seem like a half bad option.
  
  Whichever option you go with always make sure you're putting your newly cleaned records into clean inner sleeves. If they were dirty in those sleeves it's very likely those sleeves are dirty too. Also remember to keep your turntable mat and stylus clean.

There seems to be the consensus that this or anything that looks like it is manufactured from the same place. They're relatively cheap, and $15 is a small investment that will go a long way for the proper care of your records.

I love this one

Carbon fiber brushes are good for regular upkeep of already clean records. If you have to do a hardcore clean or if you like buying a bunch of used records, I'd recommend using this brush as a jumping off point. Once you run out of the fluid that's included with the brush, there's a few solid DIY record cleaning solutions posted on /r/vinyl.

Also, don't use a shirt. That'll do more harm to a record than good.

Nice receiver! I love the look (and sound) of the old 1970's-era Marantz receivers. Now for some suggestions:

1.) Get rid of the Discwasher. It is completely ineffective and can actually grind dust deeper into the grooves. Consider replacing it with this:
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT6012-Record-Care/dp/B0009IGAPW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343346910&sr=8-1&keywords=audio+technica+record+cleaning+kit

2.) Invest in a carbon fiber brush for cleaning light surface dust before each play. Use it dry, in between wet cleanings. I use one by Audioquest, and it does an admirable job. It is available here:
http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI/ref=pd_cp_e_0

These two items are the cheapest and most effective upgrade for any vinyl system.

3.) Consider upgrading your turntable. Something like a Pioneer PL-12D will vastly outperform your Sony deck, and it can be found on eBay sometimes for under $100.

4.) New speakers (but you know that already).

Feel free to PM me if you have any questions. And good for you for taking the first plunge into vinyl :-)

I'd say speakers would be first. Do you have anything to clean your records? I use something like this to keep dust off before playing --> http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI

What exactly do you have? There might be some adjustments you could do, knowing what tt you're working with could help.

Edit: I saw it's a Crosley. Yeah, sorry man, those things just aren't good. I'll say what the other guy said too, if an album's skipping, don't listen to it anymore, nothing will make that Crosley track it without grinding it like a millstone. It won't hurt your records that play fine that much, unless you use it for years. Check your local Craiglist for vintage turntables, if you post a link to your craigslist I bet some guys here would be glad to help you out with picking one. Check with old people you know, they might have some stuff they're willing to give away, I got the receiver and speakers I'm using right now from a man at church, and another guy gave me a Kenwood tt that would work fine with a new belt and stylus. I hope you can find a kickass setup, but in the meantime, just enjoy what you've got.

EDIT DOS: while I'm giving out advice, I suggest you pick up one of these . They're cheap, and they're great for getting dust off of your records, which can put pops and crackle in them. I always use it before I play mine, just a quick clean.

You will need speaker cable; don't get the super thin stuff. Something about the thickness of lamp cords (18 gauge). When you hook up your speakers, it's imperative that they're in phase - make sure the red terminal on the speaker connects to the red on your amp. Not doing so won't damage your speakers, but one will be pulling while the other is pushing, effectively cancelling each other out. Usually speaker wire has one side with a line or a ridge so you can tell them apart.

You amplifier and speakers can accept banana plugs. They're entirely optional, but they sure do look nice.

You'll want a basic cleaning kit - something to clean your records and discharge static electricity and something to clean your stylus. If you're a cheapskate, or just prefer DIY solutions (I'm both), then you can use a very small piece of a Magic Sponge to clean your stylus. You don't brush it; you just gently lower you stylus onto it a few times.

this one

I was just getting into vinyl when I was your age, and I initially found it hard navigating the most basic technical information about how to decide how to purchase and set up a turntable. Here is the most relevant stuff you need to know:

1. By default, turntables do not output sound at "line level." Basically, their signal has to be amplified by a preamplifier before it is plugged into an amplifier/receiver. However, many turntables are shipped with preamplifiers built-in (the one you have linked is one such model). This means you can plug it in to any amplifier/receiver input that accepts line level input. If you see an amplifier/receiver input labeled "phono," this input is for turntables that do not have preamplifiers, and it is probably the case that your amplifier/receiver has a phono preamplifier built-in to it.
   
   It is embarassing how many people do not understand the need for a preamplification system so please take note of this: If you ever are playing music through a turntable and it is coming through really quiet, that means you do not have a correctly operating phono preamplifier. Phono preamplifiers can be external add-ons that are placed in between your turntable and receiver/amp, internal features of your reciever/amp, or internal features of your turntable. At some point in your set-up, a preamplifer must be present.
   
   
2. Turntables power the rotation of the platter by one of two means: belt-driven mechanisms or Direct Drive motors. Belt-driven turntables rotate the platter at the same speed as Direct Drive ones, but their torque is weaker. This means that any physical restriction on the platter of a belt-driven turntable will seriously impact playback of the record and will probably physically damage the turntable. One very important consequence of this is that belt-driven turntables are thus not very useful for live DJ'ing, which frequently requires placing a lot of stress on the movement of the platter. If you're only concerned with placing a record on a platter and listening to it all the way through, then don't worry about it. There are a number of other things to consider in the belt-driven vs. Direct Drive distinction, but this is probably the most important one. The turntable you've posted is a belt-driven table.
   
   
3. Cartridges and needles come in many different types. There are two primary distinctions that must be established when talking about cartridges and needles: A) Cartridges can be either Moving Magnet (MM) or Moving Coil (MC), and B) Needles can be either conical or elliptical in shape. There's a lot of cool physics and stuff to consider here if you ever really get into vinyl, and you might start with wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_cartridge . For now, just know that these distinctions exist, and be conscious of the type of cartridge and needle you need to buy if you ever have to replace the ones on your current turntable. I believe the turntable you've posted comes shipped with a Moving Magnet cartridge and conical stylus.
   
   
4. Turntables can be "automatic," "semi-automatic," or "manual." Automatic turntables take complete control of the operation of the tonearm. You press a start button, and the tonearm moves by itself and plays the exposed side of the record. When it's done, the tonearm retracts and returns to its resting place by itself. Manual turntables require you to operate the tonearm. You must place the tonearm where you want the record to start, and you must return it when you want the record to stop. Semi-auto turntables come in a few different forms, but generally they allow some manipulation of the placement of the tonearm while retaining the ability to automatically return the tonearm to its cradle when the record is finished.
   
   
   
   Now, to answer your actual questions:
   
   
5. Is it a good turntable to purchase? That depends on your desires. Generally, you can divide turntables into three price ranges: Under $150 tables, $300-$500 tables, and +$600 turntables. You have to make a choice between a sub-$150 table and a $300-$500 table. http://www.needledoctor.com/ is a good website to use to quickly browse the many different brands of turntables available. The $300-$500 turntables will come with more features like anti-skate control (the ability to apply a force to the tonearm that pulls it away from the center of the record in case the needle ever starts "skating) and pitch control (the ability to make minute changes to the speed of the rotation of the platter, thus affecting the song's tempo and pitch. If you're just starting out and not planning on DJ'ing, you probably don't need these features.
   
   As for my personal opinions on brands, I think Audio Technica's turntables are not amazing but they're acceptable, and at $80 you can't really complain. This would be a good "starter" table, if the bug catches you like it did me you can always upgrade later. If you are willing to go the $300-$500 route, look into turntables by Technics, Vestax, Music Hall, or Pro-Ject. Be cautious about the brands Stanton, Numark, Gemini, and Ion when it comes to $300+ turntables.
   
   
6. Do you need a receiver to connect headphones? Your turntable will not have a headphone jack unless it already has an amplifier. So you will need a receiver in the sense that a receiver is an amplifier (receiver = amplifier that plays AM/FM radio and has many inputs for other devices). Receivers generally have headphone jacks.
   
   
7. You do not need to worry about 78 rpm records at this juncture unless you're really looking to find lots of music that was made in the early 20th century. Even then, a lot of it has been re-released on 33 RPM records.
   
   
8. Are vinyl records durable? They are certainly less durable than CDs when it comes to playability. Simply put, playing vinyl records is a destructive act. Since pressure equals force divided by area, even the one to two grams of force a typical needle applies to a record is divided by a very very small area (the tip of the needle), thus resulting in a great amount of pressure. Over time, records wear out from being played. Records are more durable in the sense that its a lot harder to break a vinyl record than it is to break a CD, but do know that it's really easy to hear every little scratch and dent on a vinyl record.
   
   Dust is another issue. If you're buying used records, and you will be, fighting dust will be an uphill battle. Most record stores worth their salt will clean their records with record cleaning machines before selling them; flea markets won't. Do your part to minimize the role of dust by using a carbon fiber brush on a record before playing it ( http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-Anti-Static-record-cleaner-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI/ref=pd_sim_e_7 ). If you find a record store with a record cleaning machine, they usually charge about a dollar a record to wash your vinyl, or less if you're a good friend/customer. Other ways to lessen the impact of dust:
   a) use outer sleeves and inner sleeves
   b) clean your stylus regularly with a small brush that comes with it in a backwards to forwards motion
   c) use brushes and record cleaning solutions (do note that it is possible to make record cleaning solutions yourself, google it): http://www.needledoctor.com/Stanton-VC-1-Vinyl-Cleaner?sc=2&category=108
   
   Turntables are durable, but since they have more external moving parts than, say, CD players, they are more at risk to damage. The tonearm is your greatest concern. Don't let that thing get knocked around. Belts on belt-driven turntables wear out eventually, but replacing them is pretty easy.
   
   
9. Is the sound quality on vinyl superior? Depends on who you ask--and the context. The question you should be asking yourself is, "Do you enjoy the sound of a vinyl record?" It's a very particular kind of thing; some people like it, some don't. If you are really put off by tiny pops and scratches in your music, vinyl is probably not for you.

If it is really dirty, I use the wood glue method. I'll be buying a record washer soon though for more regular cleaning.

My regular cleaning is really just using an Audioquest brush to get any dust off right before I play the record.

As for the stylus, I use a Magic Eraser. I used to have that dust ball problem until I started using the brush. So stylus cleaning doesn't happen as often as it once did.

Here's some links:

Brush

Record washer

Magic Eraser

This has come in handy quite a bit for me. I use it on every play, although it's really for pulling loose dust off.

I haven't used anything like it, but this post seems relevant.

Don't freak, man. Here are a few pointers to start with...

1. Do not touch the record anywhere but on the outer edge and the label. Your fingers carry oil that will get into the grooves and attract dust/grime that effs up your needle.
   
2. Do not touch the needle (also called a stylus). same reason as #1, but also run the risk of bending or damaging it.
   
3. Store your records vertically. Don't stack them on top of eachother...that leads to warpage
   
4. get an anti-static brush. This gets dust out of grooves and will aid in reducing static.
   
5. check out some videos about 'loudness' on youtube. They are good representations about the difference in mastering from vinyl to CD. It may be hard to tell with your punk collection, but vinyl is generally mastered much better than other formats so it really does sound better.
   
6. good luck.

http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI

I use this AudioQuest Record Brush. It's the only one i've ever owned so I have nothing to compare it to, but it seems to work well.

I own this table and its a tank!

I have this carbon fiber slip mat that helps bring down static.
http://www.sleevecityusa.com/sleeve-city-carbon-fiber-turntable-mat-p/dm-232.htm

I have this headshell
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001GVJA1C/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1419565880&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

This cartridge.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007ZC2EYQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1419565950&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

The shure m97xe is a decent beginner cart and it's very neutral sounding in my opinion. I listen to a wider variety of music and it does a decent job highlighting each sound. You can also upgrade the needle down the road to the Jico SAS which I hear is amazing.

I'm sure others can recommend some other carts for you but I only wanna talk about what I own.

Also you're gonna want a record cleaning brush. The audio quest is a great little brush that I've had for almost 2 years now and is great to use before you spin a record.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0006VMBHI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1419566312&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40


Any other questions be sure to ask. I know a bit of the technical stuff on this table and I'll do my best to help.

I'm not sure, it was this one

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006VMBHI
(There are dozens of others, this was the first result I found)

This is how I clean my records. This is the brush I use before playing.

Okay, well this is from the US Amazon site but it comes out to $500 USD, or $635 CAD

Turntable: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon

Phono Preamplifier: Pro-Ject Phono Box DC

I'd use the remaining funds on up-keep & accessories like a carbon fiber brush, a cork mat and a stylus cleaner

It's fine. Get an anti-static brush like this

Follow the instructions on the box, you will be fine.

I think there are many great options right around 50-60, you buy a cartridge once and then pretty much never again, so buy something you are happy with for the long haul.

That Shure and the Grado Black (price fixed at $60) are generally toe to toe, and I don't think any is the clear winner, some claim that Grado is better for rock and roll (vocal and midrange) sounds and the Shure better all around, but I don't have one of each to actually verify that first hand.

Here is a technics owner asking for some comparison http://www.vinylengine.com/turntable_forum/viewtopic.php?t=32690

Both will work fine, when comparing cartridges we are getting into the audiophile realm where things are very subjective and wishy-washy but I would say 60ish is the entry level option for a table as good as the one you picked up, don't make the mistake of sticking a twenty dollar cartridge on it (as suggested, no offence person) the cartridge is really really important, more than your table honestly. We focus so much on tables here that we miss out that your speakers, cartridge, and grounding is likely doing more to the sound than your table will if it is working properly.

I can't find info on your specific model of receiver, but if there is a "Phono" (Or turntable or record or whatever it got called) input it will have an integrated pre-amp, if not you will need to buy one.

I checked amazon, it looks like Crosley makes a cheap one, knowing nothing about it I would avoid it because Crosley is a hateful company. :) I bought this one and have nothing but good luck with it http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-Anti-Static-record-cleaner-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1334761206&sr=8-1

I know people reported problems with this one http://www.amazon.com/Carbon-Fiber-Record-Cleaner-Cleaning/dp/B003ZVG60O/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1334761206&sr=8-16 But they look exactly the same! So no clue, differing quality standards? Defects get one label real ones get audio quest label? The reviews of both products seem to confirm something is up.

Here's my system:

Deep Cleaning

• 3 parts distilled water
  
• 1 part isopropyl rubbing alcohol (the 90% stuff)
  
• 1 drop of jet dry
  
  spray this solution on your records and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth
  
  Wet a different microfiber cloth with just distilled water and wipe the clean record down.
  
  Less Deep Cleaning
  
  I use an RCA Disc washer from the 1970s that looks similar to this.
  
  Dust and static before playing
  
  In the groove record cleaner for removing the odd hair or dust particle
  
  AudioQuest brush for removing a little static before playing.
  
  Stylus
  
  My shure M97xe came with a little brush to clean the stylus, but I know mobile fidelity sells a stylus cleaning brush that looks good enough.
  
  Edit:
  
  1. Make sure you're not putting a clean record into a dirty sleeve. 2. Try not to spray your labels when deep cleaning, but a little bit of overspray has never damaged any of mine.

The cheap player might do some damage when playing them over time, but there's not much you can do about that one until you can afford to upgrade. Mind you all record players do this, but the cheaper ones will be harder on your records over a shorter period of time.

In the meantime, I'd recommend getting a record cleaning brush (this is just an example, you can buy whichever one you prefer) and use it to gently brush dust and dirt off the record. Even new ones will often have some paper residue on them from their sleeves.

A good idea would be to also buy some polylined innersleeves (again, an example, but these are amongst the best - you can find cheaper ones, just make sure they're polylined and not just plain paper sleeves). Often new (and used) records come in cheap paper innersleeves. These does not prevent static buildup (quite the contrary) and can cause some nasty scuffs on your records over time as well as leaving fine paper residue in the record grooves.

Finally, you can buy some plastic/PVC outer sleeves. These are not strictly necessary, and often they protect the album cover more than the actual album. But they'll keep your covers looking nicer for a longer period of time and reduce the risk of damage in case you spill stuff or, God forbid, your record room floods. There are several types of these and which ones you should use is essentially up to personal preference. Don't store your records directly in these without their cover or sleeve though, as some of these outer sleeves can leave plastic residue on the discs over time.

There are also record cleaning equipment. This is most often used for used albums, but are also good for new ones. I'd recommend googling around for information about that and see what you think is good enough as record cleaning is a new hobby in itself and people can't seem to agree entirely on best practices.

I hope this helps a little bit :)

Until you plunk down for a Spin Clean ($80) or a VPI or Nitty Gritty ($300? or so), this will help keep things tidy:
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT6012-Record-Care/dp/B0009IGAPW/

And eventually you'll want one of these to use on your already-cleaned records:
http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-Anti-Static-record-cleaner-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI/

http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405602176&sr=8-1

I just got into the hobby too and this is one of the most handy accessories I've purchased. If your record is already clean but has some specks of dust on it, just spin your turntable and hold the brush steady on the record. After a few rotations, slowly drag the brush towards you and off of the record. Do this a few more times to eliminate any surface dust. Do this every time before you set the needle down and your records will stay clean as long as you don't smudge them up with fingerprints or sneeze on them.

On top of that, you can buy a brush for removing any dust or buildup on your needle. I haven't invested in one of these yet, but I plan to soon.

As for washing those dirty records you bring home from the thrift store... for an almost-no-budget approach, I've been doing this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Umhr_UwjzSw

Since I'm not sure what's in my tap water, I've been rinsing them off with distilled to try to minimize minerals staying behind on them. (Really, I should probably be washing them in distilled water too.)

I like the AR table. One thing you might want to do is have it set up by a pro. That can make a huge difference. Also the AudioQuest brush is a must (http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-Anti-Static-record-cleaner-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI). You have a great start here. I am not a fan of the Stanton cart but it works. If you decide you want to get a little more out of that table look at a Shure M97XE.

How often? Every time you wish to play it.

How hard? It depends! I inherited my grandfather's and my father's record collection when I started collecting. Some of the records were very dirty, so I bought a SpinClean to get rid of the dirt.

I've cleaned all my records with it at least once (even the new ones), and after that I just brush with a carbon fiber brush before I put it on the turntable (to remove static and light dirt, paper linen, etc).

Cleaning with the brush while the record is spinning is easier, but it does not get rid of static, and sometimes it generates more of it (i live in a very dry city), and the same goes for the dust (they cling on the record because of the static).

TL:DR: you should always deep clean your records once (the SpinClean is awesome for this). After that is just keeping them clean with a carbon fiber brush, and that is super easy!

Be sure you have a 78 cartridge for playing the 78s. This one is recommended a lot.

This works well for a brush. Be sure you wet clean the records though - the brush is for dust that gets on the record between plays, it does not deep clean.

Did you know Amazon will donate a portion of every purchase if you shop by going to smile.amazon.com instead? Over $50,000,000 has been raised for charity - all you need to do is change the URL!

Here are your smile-ified links:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B1VB0G0/

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006VMBHI/

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B001LQSFKY/

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000AJR482/

---

^^i'm ^^a ^^friendly bot

I just placed an order for these items:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B1VB0G0/

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006VMBHI/

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001LQSFKY/

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000AJR482/

I gave up on the container because of the price, I'll have to find something else. Are all the items good? Have I forgotten anything?

This is what you want: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0006VMBHI/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1497626926&sr=8-8&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=carbon+fiber+record+brush&dpPl=1&dpID=41ROx%2BDB7qL&ref=plSrch

These are sold under many different brandings, and they're all pretty much the same. I've had the best luck with the Audioquest branded ones, though.

Would this also work for my problem?http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0006VMBHI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1415586588&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40

I'd try the method you suggested but im to scared ill mess up.

Do you have any particular brush you'd recommend? I see this one on Amazon, but some reviews complain it sheds bristles.

I would also recommend an AudioQuest Anti-Static Record Cleaner Brush, which is a fairly tried-and-true way of getting dust off of your records before you play them.

For what you described, this will be perfect.

http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1375474868&sr=8-1&keywords=Record+brush

I got one for Christmas as well.

Kid A by Radiohead sounds fantastic, I picked up a copy of it at Best Buy. Lateralus by Tool is also one of my favorites. In the Court of the Crimson King by King Crimson, OK Computer by Radiohead, Insurgentes by Steven Wilson. I ordered the vinyl edition of Takk... by Sigur Rós off of Amazon.com which I should get in the mail soon. I dying to hear it.

Oh, and as a tip; I would invest in one of these.

http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI

This is the one I have! I let the record spin and gently press it to the record for a bit. After a few rotations, I slowly move it to the center and let the bristles touch the spindle. Seems to work so far.

I’m going to have to save up to get a RCM.

For now, do you guys think either of these are worth it?

http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI/ref=pd_bxgy_23_img_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=13MB11M2HSXWKFSTKV83

http://www.amazon.com/RCA-RD-1006-Discwasher-Record-System/dp/B000KMZKTO/ref=pd_bxgy_267_img_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=10TKQZBT985CJE9E02YM

It does sound to me like it's a stylus issue. When you moved your turntable was the arm locked down? If it came loose there's a chance the stylus could've been damaged. Other than that, I'd recommend picking up a record brush like one of these:

http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI

These are easily the best $20 you can spend if you're just starting off collecting, it will help clean dust off your records which will greatly reduce dust and damage to your records and needle.

Some great headphone.
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B000ULAP4U

Record brush
http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001A9ST2G/

Record Cleaner
http://www.amazon.com/SPIN-CLEAN-STARTER-RECORD-WASHER-SYSTEM

Great turntable! I'd also recommend getting one of these, which is super handy in keeping the dust off your records once you get started!

RE Amps:

You don't really need that pre-amp if you buy an amplifier with a "Phono" input. This serves the same purpose as a pre-amp, namely, converting the turntable's signal into something the amp can work with.

Something like This, for example. Many modern amps also have multiple inputs for your iPod, CD player, and whatever else you need, which is great! :D


Those pre-amps are useful if you already have an amplifier which does NOT have this phono input, which is often the case with modern stereos.

The brush is anti static, which does make a difference. The Audioquest one goes for $15 w Prime shipping on Amazon and, from my personal experience, works great.

Consider how much money you've spent on your collection. If it's more than $100, it's worth investing in a piece of gear that will keep your vinyl in better shape.

Also, if you're gonna wipe your vinyl with water, make sure you ONLY use distilled water. NEVER tap. There are often chemicals/minerals in tap water that will end up caked onto the grooves.

old style


new style

I bought this record cleaning brush and this record cleaning kit. I haven't cleaned the stylus since I just got the table. I ordered the Onzow Zerodust. As far as cleaning the skip issue on the record, you think a RCM would work? What about this?

The fact that the 2M Red cartridge tracks deeper is something I didn't know and that helps a lot!

Hi guys, I'm relatively new to playing records. I've had a turntable setup for a year or so, but don't get to use it that much.

My question is, how do you control static pops and clicks? Even on the records I buy brand new, I still get pops and clicks and my turntable sounds nowhere near as good as playing music from my iPod to my receiver. I have:

• Infinity Interlude Il60 speakers
  
• Harmon Kardon AVR325 Receiver
  
• An 80s Kenwood preamp (not the best, I know, but I don't think it should be that weak)
  
• A late 80s Technics home turntable, not one of the nicer professional type ones
  
  I replaced the cartridge with this Audio Technica cartridge, hoping it would help out, but it didn't help much at all. I realize it's a cheap cartridge, but so is my preamp and turntable.
  
  I have used this record washing contraption and this anti static brush, but niether seem to keep the dust off of my records, and pops and clicks develop way too quickly.
  
  I love spinning some vinyl, but when the sound quality doesn't compare to digital music, it really turns me off :(
  
  What do you use to keep your records fresh and clean, and what can I do to control dust and static on my records so I don't ruin them?

I use the audioquest brush someone on here recommended a bit ago : link -- works great

I assume by Audioquest you are talking about is this (ignore me if you're not) which is great for removing dust before each play but it wont really "clean" old or dirty records.

Just remember that you'll also need a phono stage with either of these are worth it? http://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI/ref=pd_bxgy_23_img_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=13MB11M2HSXWKFSTKV83. http://www.amazon.com/RCA-RD-1006-Discwasher-Record-System/dp/B000KMZKTO/ref=pd_bxgy_267_img_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=10TKQZBT985CJE9E02YM.

Hi! Welcome to the world of vinyl!

I'll suggest visiting /r/vinyl which is a world of knowledge (but also a world of scritiny) but there's good info over there.

also, THIS get it now, you need it. brush every record before and after play.

Don't worry about a pre amp. That turntable has one. Basically, buy both of them, a couple records, and you're set!

Maybe buy a record brush like this and use it everytime you play a record. I have one, and it's made a huge difference.

The carbon fiber ones are the kind I see widely recommended. Here's a cheap option that I use and works well: https://www.amazon.com/AudioQuest-LP-record-clean-brush/dp/B0006VMBHI

Ok so a couple of questions:

• Did you buy it new or used?
  
  
• If used it could just be dirty, give it a clean. Head over to /r/vinyl for some tips on cleaning records. tl;dr don't use chemicals
  
  
• Also if its new it could also be dirty from the pressing plant.
  
  
• What is your setup?
  
  
• You should make sure its not something to do with your equipment, worn out stylus, off balance tonearm, vibrations from motor, etc. Do other records sound bad?
  
  
• Do you use an anti static vinyl brush before playing? I find they help a lot at making the LP sound better. Here's an amazon product page they're cheap. And here is how to use it
  
  Could be a whole host of issues. I own Beggars and TBEITBN and I think they both sound great. Hopefully its not just an unlucky bad pressing and you can find a way to make it sound great.
  
  Good luck.