Best record cleaners & cleaning supplies according to redditors
We found 272 Reddit comments discussing the best record cleaners & cleaning supplies. We ranked the 53 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 272 Reddit comments discussing the best record cleaners & cleaning supplies. We ranked the 53 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
To be clear, this is the pen issue we're talking about.
There is a large pen offset, when you touch the metal frame of the device while resting your palm on the screen. This only happens on the SP2017 and Surface Book 2 in combination with the new 2017 Surface Pen.
And here another consequence of this issue
More than ten SP2017 and five SB2 13" devices I tested, some with LOTs as late as 1750, and with 4 pens, some with LOTs as late as 18xx, had this metal touching offset issue. See also stickied thread.
Here some interesting comment from the support forum that might be helpful.
> I also use a bamboo pen for when the surface one starts acting up. I also felt at first like the latest update solved the problem, only for the problem becoming worse shortly after. However, it got worse around the same time a cold front hit my country and the air became drier resulting in higher static electricity. I even noticed my hair getting attracted to the pen due to this. When I tried discharging myself it got a little better and now the cold front has passed us, the performance of my pen seems to be higher as well. So I feel like there’s a corelation between the jitter and static electricity. I always keep hand cream on hand now, and when the jitter gets worse, applying it to my hands seems to help as well.
Also, someone suggested this.
And this might also be helpful.
Has anyone else here tried this little sticky roller? I've only used it for a few weeks but it seems to get the job done. I opted for this because I didn't want a brush that could leave bristles on the record. I'm not sure how it sticks to dust without adhesive. I'm pretty sure it's magic.
Yep!
For anyone without a cleaning system out there, I use the vinylstyl spin cleaner with tergikleen and distilled water for my ever growing collection. And the vinyl vac for any dust/dog hairs before listening. Or for new records that have paper pieces lodged in them.
I much prefer the vinyl styl over the spinclean because it comes with a spinning clamp over the label and a stand to hold 15 drying records. And it's cheaper.
The best cleaning system I could put together in terms of bang for buck. The marked up "alcohol water" refill cleaning fluid is where these companies get people. More collectors should know about tergikleen.
I wrote up this big to-do about how I clean my records, and not sure many people saw it. Pasting it below because I think this hands-down, THE BEST way to clean records.
***
I've cleaned over a thousand of records with this. Highly recommend!!
http://cratedigging.co/13/9832/product_review__squeaky_clean_mark_iii_record_cleaning_machine
One pass to suck up loose dirt/dust
Second pass with distilled water + solution
Third pass distilled water only
Flip record and repeat
Solution is the same that the library of congress uses to clean their records. 20 drops per gallon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019YI38Z2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_7WtMAbSQYZ36W
The included brush with the Mark III wears out quickly. Buy these at Home Depot and cut them in half. I use one for the solution, another for water.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004Z4H2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_MYtMAbMG8T3MW
Solution and water can be applied with these squeeze bottles. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E0CZPNA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_L2tMAbRS7PV87
This cleaning works fantastic for 99%of my records. I can clean a record in 3 minutes. For dirtier records I let them sit in the solution for 5-10 minutes. Stubborn dirt is spot treated with a soft toothbrush.
I put the whole shebang on a storage tub lid (upside down) so liquid that falls off collects in the plastic lid. And when it pools up from lots of cleaning, use a turkey baster to suck up the excess liquid. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H9M6Q46/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_V.tMAbHB8KGDE
My vacuum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003M2F7NI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_NeuMAb188RH6K
Wet wash them. Wet wash all your records. Wet wash old/used AND new records. Wet wash every single record that you get at least once.
Some options:
AI #6 cleaning formula
MoFi cleaning brush
Zerostat 3
Joanna Newsom - Divers
> vinyl needle cleaning kit
we get lazy in our old age. Amazon of course is the answer.
https://www.amazon.ca/Vinyl-Styl-72311-Stylus-Cleaning/dp/B00C77D6DW
I use the Vinyl Styl cleaning brush and fluid for my records and the Vinyl Styl stylus cleaner as well, they both seem to get the job done. I also have an anti-static brush that I use one the record before cleaning it but I'm not sure if that's overkill or not. The kit I linked is out of stock right now on Amazon but anything like the stuff in it should work.
https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-Ultimate-Record-Cleaning/dp/B01APVUCRY/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1540678362&sr=1-6
I use a Vinyl Buddy (Vinyl Buddy Record Cleaner - Ultimate All in One LP Cleaning Device, Anti-Static & Will NOT Damage Your Records | Rejuvenate & Keep Your Vinyl Sounding Awesome https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071Z2GZ5N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_g8ZACbNAGYW9P), which is essentially a lint roller, to give new, used records a quick clean if I want to listen to it before I wash it with the Spin Clean. It’s effective enough at removing surface dust and dirt.
I'd suggest using this instead of dish soap:
http://www.amazon.com/Professional-Archivist-TergiKleen-Tergitol-based-Concentrate/dp/B019YI38Z2
It's pretty cheap and acts as both a wetting agent and detergent with none of the worries of alcohol and soap. I also use it with a paint pad.
Be sure to rinse regardless of your method, though.
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:
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.
Vinyl Styl makes the same sort of device for a bit cheaper. It's called the Deep Groove record washer. Looking on Amazon, there's also another similar device called the Big Fudge Record Friend, which seems more in line with the design of the Spin Clean.
But you could also go the Squeaky Clean RCM route if you want to get into vacuum cleaning instead. It'll run a little more and you need to provide a shop vac, but you won't have to clean in batches that way, and you can likely get a small, cheap shop vac for under 50 bucks at a hardware store or even Walmart.
This one grounds the bristles to you, reducing static.
The kit linked below is the one I have and the one I usually see recommended.
RCA RD1006 Discwasher Vinyl Record Cleaning Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009K63IY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_j5nbBbB200XVB
For cheap records I’d just start checking out local record stores and thrift shops. You can also get lucky at garage sales finding people that just want to get rid of their shit for the first person with any amount of money. Sometimes you can find some gems in there.
Also, if you’re not on Discogs you should be. Google it, great way to track your collection and figure out the relative value of a particular record.
That would suggest a lot of static. Maybe use some kind of static remover like this https://www.amazon.co.uk/Milty-Zerostat-3-Anti-Static-Gun/dp/B0033SHDSS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521899808&sr=8-1&keywords=static+gun
Although I don't personally use one, I've heard good things about the Zerostat 3
I feel your pain, I've been printing 20x24... with a glass carrier... and contrast masks. So sometimes 8-10 surfaces for dust to collect.
90% of household dust is said to be human skin, so don't lean over your negs too much. Static makes dust stick, so keep the humidity up - run some hot water, get a small humidifier. Darkroom are usually easy to get the humidity up.
Clean your enlarger every few weeks - take off the condensers, disassemble, blow with compressed air, and put a clean trash bag over the enlarger when not using it. heat from the bulb will make dust float around in there.
I use a zerostat gun, but that's pretty luxe. But for $20 or so I rigged up an LED magnifier on a magic arm. My process:
Wipe down the work area with a damp towel and run some hot water (I have an electric kettle that I turn on).
Zerostat the neg if you have one. Then give it a good blast of canned air, front and back. Look at it under the LED light (with no backlight). Twist and turn it so the surface reflects - you'll see individual dust spots. Use a small artist brush to sweep them away.
I clean the glass carrier first (if I use the glass) and inspect it. Then the neg, and seal the neg in the carrier. I'll do a test print and if I see something that's tough to spot, at least I know where to look for it on the neg. Hairs and fibers are much harder to spot (EDIT - by "spot", I mean paint out of the print with spotting dyes as the last step) than dust spots, so avoid wearing those cotton gloves. They seem to dump some fibers.
Are you spotting your prints? It's unavoidable. You'll still get a spot or two, so get some spotting dyes and a #000 and #0000 artist brush (get decent ones, check them out vs. mail order) - use them only for spotting prints. I have long-discontinued Marumi spotting die set, but I do lith printing and toning (so I get reds, browns, ochers, yellows, blues), so I use a good quality watercolor set. I have an awesome loupe with an opening for a paintbrush, so I can actually "paint" film grain back in. That's not necessary for basic spotting but it's nice to have. Sort of the BMW of loupes.
Spotting matte prints is very easy - go light and it will be invisible. Spotting gloss is harder - I use gum arabic powder and mix a little slurry of it to mix with the dyes/watercolors and try to match the gloss. Spotting is an art unto itself, but I really enjoy it, kind of a zen thing. Google has some videos, don't know if they're any good but have a look.
Devoid of pop? Like Ice Cube?
But seriously though. Running your records through a cleaner first thing (before you even spin them the first time) for an initial cleaning, and then using a carbon fiber brush before every needle drop will go a long way towards eliminating those annoying pops.
A Spin-Clean kit and a $10 carbon fiber brush are very worthwhile investments for long-term enjoyment of this hobby.
That's interesting. Browsing Amazon yields this:
http://www.amazon.com/In-The-Groove-Record-Cleaner/dp/B004MG9YYQ/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_t
Seems to be pretty much the same.
You can buy cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth at pretty much any record shop for a little bit more than $10.
or here’s one I found on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C5N0CTY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.0l3Bb6W27RAA
I’d suggest that you buy a record cleaner, even brand new records can have dust and particles of paper and stuff. This is what I use and it works great! For 10$ you can’t get a better deal
First, make sure you only use distilled water. Nothing out of the tap. Also, only use microfiber clothes on your records. If you don't have any, they are usually only a few bucks on Amazon or at Walmart.
There are a few options:
You'd be infinitely better off with a regular vacuum and one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-Record-Vacuum-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496688731&sr=8-1&keywords=record+cleaning+vacuum+attachment
FWIW, I use a spin clean and then vacuum with this on a busted up turntable, and I've been really happy with the results.
Clean, clean, clean. And not just dollar bin finds, or records when you can visibly see dust. Serious collectors spend $$$$ on crazy contraptions, bu there are plenty of cheaper options.
An anti-static brush is not an option. There are plenty out there. I use this one. Place it on the record while it's spinning, and let it hang under it's own weight (i.e. don't put down) for a few rotations. Scrape and dust off of the bristles and do it again. Do this before and after you play each side.
There are lots of solutions and cleansers, some specifically made for vinyl, some general cleansers, some homemade, that are touted as the best way to clean records short of buying a $5000 machine. And a raging debate regarding isopropyl alcohol. Because I prefer to avoid the pain of rinsing, I like cleaners that evaporate/wipe off without leaving residue. I like Lasermedia VNC-8 personally. Ammonia and alcohol free. In between the obligatory anti-static brushings, I spray the record with this, spread across the surface as evenly as I can with one microfiber cloth (call this one the 'wet' cloth, then I use a cleaning brush firm enough to put some reasonable downforce on the surface, then 'wet' microfiber cloth again and then another ('dry') microfiber cloth, by which point most of the solution should have evaporated or been dried by the second cloth. When using cloths and brushes, I always start from the edge of the record and move inwards, following the path of the groove. Never against or parallel to the grooves.
Old, used records obviously should be cleaned before being played, as is true of any records that you've let get dirty/haven't cleaned thoroughly in a while, but new records need a cleaning too. Perhaps not so vigorously, but there are chemicals, residue, and other unwanted debris that can remain from the pressing process.
I know it all seems tedious, but it protects your records (playing a dirty record can permanently damage the surface) and your stylus. Plus they'll sound better. Isn't that the whole point?
I'm not /u/pyroglass, but I use one of those anti-static brushes you can get off Amazon. It supposedly cleans the grooves of the records better than a micro-fiber cloth. I usually use both. First the cloth for the "heavier" dust or such, then finish it off with the brush :)
Or you could just buy the vinyl washer... (yes such a thing exists). I've never cleaned my with and liquids. Too scared it'd harm the records.
The record can also be warped or scratched. Or maybe the weight on the arm that holds the cartridge/stylus needs to be adjusted? When I first got my record player the weight was too "back heavy" so the stylus would sometimes hover over the record for just a very brief moment but just enough for the stylus to jump out of the groove and do a little skip.
> I'm convinced I'll never find another copy of the ones I love if I destroy them even when I know that's not true.
So, 2 things here:
First, it might help ease your mind if you actively know where/how a replacement can be found, and for how much. I'd suggest checking out discogs. This will allow you to see all the vinyl releases for a specific album, and how many are for sales and what the going prices are. For Carpenter's records, you're talking about albums where the shipping cost of $4 would likely be more than the album itself. And if you have a local record store, the task is even easier.
Second, vinyl records are much more resilient than people will give them credit for. Yeah, ideally each album you have will be pristine forever and never encounter dust and not have any pops or cracks in the playback. But, in reality, most vinyl has some inherent flaw right off the press. Whether that's debris from the paper sleeve that got into the groove, or a finger print from a worker that packages the album, or light scuffing from distribution. It's a physical format and that means it will interact with the physical world. Embrace that. It's what makes this hobby fun - it's tangible art. And it's not perfect. But that's okay. Because you'll still be able to drop the needle and hear the music and enjoy the music. And that really isn't going to change if a bit of dust gets on the album, or the jacket gets a little scrape, or even if you accidentally sneeze all over the record.
If you want to be meticulous with your albums, I'd suggest the following 3 products:
Its good I have it and have used it for the last two years but the new Vinyl Styl cleaner looks to be even better because it is modeled after the German Made Knosti, plus it comes with a drying rack. So it appears to have better functionality than the spin clean. Only addition you will need are some microfiber cloths to complete the drying process.
https://smile.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-Groove-Record-Washer/dp/B01M0LRLM5/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492007033&sr=8-1&keywords=vinyl+style+record+cleaner
Yes, that's the one. It's been around forever and has a lot of fans. There are better (more expensive and complex) cleaners out there, but I think that the Spin Clean is very effective for the money.
This is the silicone roller I like so much: https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Buddy-Record-Cleaner-Anti-Static/dp/B071Z2GZ5N/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=Vinyl+Buddy+Record+Cleaner&qid=1564284133&s=electronics&sr=1-3
This is popular with the locals.
https://www.amazon.com/Starter-Record-Blucoil-Anti-Static-Cleaning/dp/B07583WQM9
This is what I use, in combination with a carbon fiber/nonstatic brush: https://www.amazon.ca/Stanton-Magnetics-Record-Cleaner-Kit/dp/B00006I5UH
Also, as cartridge12 says below, check/adjust your cart and tonearm, and anti-skating.
From your description it sounds like it is too damaged for this to work but always worth a shot.
So, for light cleaning and pre-heavy cleaning, I go with this guy. It does a decent job at surface cleaning.
If I want to get a little bit deeper, especially if it's a used album I've not yet personally cleaned, I use this. It's an affordable way to wet clean your records.
I've been using this system for a while, and it works well. I was able to restore a discounted Blonde on Blonde to VG condition.
Canned air for small pieces of lint/dust. Otherwise a record brush for big jobs and fingerprints.
Hey! Stoked on your purchase! Curious though, did you mean LP120?
But hope I can help answer your questions!
Hope my answers help!! Enjoy your new turntable!! Whatcha listening to??
It actually looks really awful to me. It's a Discwasher knock-off. And it actually looks like a very bad knock-off. Discwasher used to be the standard for cleaning kits in the 70s and early 80s before vacuum Record Cleaning Machines became more popular or even somewhat affordable. I still have the one I bought back then. It did it's job for years. But better brushes and cleaning system have made it obsolete.
The original Discwasher was actually not velvet. It was actually a fabric with directional bristles. Although without close inspection it could be mistaken for velvet. The way it worked was you put cleaning solution on leading edge of the brush. You then scrubbed the record by applying the wet edge to the record surface for a couple of revolutions. To dry the record, you rolled the brush to dry edge of the brush, then another couple of revolutions. The directional bristles would actually scoop up the dust, hairs, or any thing else on the surface of the record.
The description of the brush you are inquiring about claims actual velvet. Which means, this is actually a pillow with a handle. You are actually better of buying the current version of the Discwasher. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C1WGG7Y I would highly recommend you avoid the product you are inquiring about. I wouldn't recommend the Discwasher either, as stated it's obsolete. I would recommend the Allsop Orbitrac 3 or a Spin Clean (or any of the cheaper knock-offs). These cost more, but you will be purchasing something that works much better. The biggest issue with the Discwasher is that you will be using a brush that will be used over and over. There is no means to replace the bristles. Mine never wore out, but this is a concern as well. A brush shouldn't last 30 years and not wear out. It shouldn't last a year. A good brush will wear out. Each time a brush is used, there should be wear on the bristles. If the brush isn't deteriorating, then it is deteriorating the record that is being brushed.
THAT is where the rca dishwasher or similar can come in handy.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0009K63IY/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484235948&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=rca+discwasher&dpPl=1&dpID=41MjHt37sWL&ref=plSrch
Some materials are just a pain in the ass to work with. I've seen a fine powder jump out of a vial after grabbing the vial with a neoprene glove, ugh.
A few options.
Alpha emitter anti-static device - Works well, contains polonium!
Anti-static gun - Works, maybe not as well as the alpha emitter. But no polonium!!! Originally made for the vinyl record loving audiophiles.
Oscillating anti-static bars - expensive and not really conducive to a small localized area such as a TGA sample.
There seems to be quite a few other variations on that AMSTAT site (I'm not affiliated), but these are the ones I'm familiar with. My experience was mostly dealing with static in a O2/H2O free glovebox, humidity greatly reduces static.
I don't know about the static reduction. I have the RT82. If you wet clean your vinyl and keep them in new anti static inner sleeves you shouldn't have to dust them with a brush very often at all with a grounded brush. If you have static issues get a Milty Zerostat 3 Anti-Static Gun.
Which speakers are you looking at?
A Zerostat gun is the only commercially available way to truly eliminate existing static completely. That or significantly increase the humidity in your room but that's no guarantee to fix the problem.Wet cleaning works pretty well but sometimes doesn't kill it totally.
Milty Zerostat 3 Anti-Static Gun, Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0033SHDSS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_-Z2lzbNW6F4SJ
It's the insides of a Zerostat:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Milty-Zerostat-3-Anti-Static-Gun/dp/B0033SHDSS
which is an anti-static gun for vinyl records.
Insides can be seen here (scroll down):
https://forums.linn.co.uk/bb/showthread.php?tid=24731
http://www.amazon.com/MILTY-ZEROSTAT-ANTI-STATIC-GUN-BLUE/dp/B0033SHDSS
if you got the cash I hear these are great, just don't shoot yourself with it
I used one of these during my previous job in a lab. It worked great for eliminating static, but may not be the solution you're looking for.
I just read this which was posted yesterday and plan to pick up the Spin-Clean system.
I have a Spin Clean, which gets mentioned a lot. I'm seriously underwhelmed by it. The method detailed above is way more effective, and a heck of a lot cheaper. I also get really good results from my "In The Groove" sticky roller, which I almost never see mentioned here.
> There were certain biodegradable plastic inner sleeves used in the 1980s
Interesting! I picked up a copy of "This is the Moody Blues" from a flea market recently. Looks like it was produced in the mid 70s. I don't think it was a biodegradeable sleeve, but the inner sleeves WERE all plastic (of some variety).
When I inspected the records, it looked like they were in awful condition. Then I gently wiped at the surface of the record and low and behold it was a just some super fine dust that had rubbed off those old plastic sleeves! I grabbed the discs, brought them home, and cleaned them with my trusty In The Groove. After a cleaning those records shined!
I replaced those awful sleeves and have been enjoying the records ever since. I'd never seen or heard of these plastic sleeves or this awful dust they left before.
Here's my system:
Deep Cleaning
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.
Non-mobile: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MG9YYQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1427659444&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=in+the+grove+record+cleaner
^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?
Which method/tool for cleaning is better out of the following two options:
Vinyl Vac
Spin Clean
i got one of these for xmas and it's great: https://smile.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-Record-Vacuum-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1493767166&sr=8-1&keywords=record+vacuum
Lasermedia VNC-8 Professional Vinyl Record Cleaning Fluid 8 Oz Spray Bottle by TME
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017U7LK40/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_CgW-Bb1XD1A2J
I use this record cleaner for $18 a bottle and the amazon basics micro fiber clothes at $10 for 25 cloths or something like that. Spray the record 4 or 5 times per side and then wipe clean with the cloth. Change the cloth out every so often. It’s not as good as a spin clean or machine clean but it’s less than $40 to clean hundreds of records pretty nicely. Then I do the carbon fiber brush before every play.
I use a $4 plastic oil pan, a $5 Shur-Line Edger (refills cost $2.50 for 2 pack), TergiKleen record cleaner concentrate (used by library of congress / makes 30 gallons / $20 but is basically a life time supply), distilled water, 3 spray bottles (distilled water, reg strength, extra strength), and microfiber cloths from Costco (which I rotate through, and repurpose to wash my car). They way I do it, they come out amazingly clean. Wish I had a vacuum and I'd think I have perfection(*ish).
If you are going to stay with your method I read only use Dawn Unscented. Alcohol is frowned upon even though it's been used in a fare number of past cleaning solutions. If you think about it it doesn't make sense anyway. As the alcohol evaporates the dirt in the fluid is just recondencing back onto the record (the dirt isn't evaporating).
https://www.amazon.com/Professional-Archivist-TergiKleen-Tergitol-based-Concentrate/dp/B019YI38Z2
mix with ddistilled water. Better yet, but a bottle of tergitol or triton x100
You dilute it so much that it costs practically nothing. I dilute 1ml of triton into 1L of water.
Not sure how pure tergikleen is, but I'm sure it still ends up cheap
http://www.loc.gov/preservation/care/record.html
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019YI38Z2/ref=sr_ph_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492483554&sr=sr-1&keywords=tergitol
http://www.ebay.com/itm/161039100163?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
I personally use this:
Vinyl Styl Ultimate Care Kit https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01APVUCRY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XemzDbXM7J71A
Anything with a felt brush and cleaning solution is a good start.
If you don't trust yourself enough to make a homemade solution to clean your vinyl records then I highly recommend something like this. https://www.amazon.com/Collector-Protector-Cleaner-Combination-Sounding/dp/B01EG5502W/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1523122282&sr=8-3&keywords=record+cleaner&dpID=51uFlKo2ZJL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch It's pretty cheap and it comes with a carbon fiber brush and cleaning solution. Even if it doesn't fix your Demon Days record it's still a good investment. I clean off my records before I play them.
They are more or less the same. You can buy this one and spend the change on the stylus cleaner
Here is a Spin Clean knock off. Half the price but looks the same pretty much:
https://www.amazon.com/Record-Cleaning-System-Solution-Included/dp/B01GOOAEVK/ref=sr_1_42?ie=UTF8&qid=1519320429&sr=8-42&keywords=vinyl+cleaner
https://www.amazon.com/Record-Cleaning-System-Solution-Included/dp/B01GOOAEVK/ works for me just fine, though I'm by no means a vinyl pro - someone else might be able to provide you with more info.
It should go without saying that you need the right care and calibration tools to make your day to day listening the best. This is what I use for those purposes;
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005KR15HU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B2AMSYS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HRJ9NAY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KAFG8EG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ERPWAK2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GOOAEVK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Of these things, the OnZow is probably the most important, along with the Studebaker record cleaner. If you buy used records a cleaner is a MUST, and even new out of the wrapper records have crap on them. The OnZow gets the junk off your needle, which is a must.
AFTER those things are taken care of, cart or preamp. Both have the most immediate effect on the sound, presuming you are playing quality good condition records.
There's also vinyl styl cleaners that are a pretty good value.
AudioQuest Anti-Static Record Brush https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XK9V3KB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Dy5ezbEXH923Z
If none of the other things listed here work I can also give you a couple things to try. I had several issues with my Pro-Ject turntable and but FAR the two biggest things I did to improve sound was buying a scale to measure the ACTUAL downforce on the needle and adjusting it to the correct weight. I followed the directions included with the turntable over and over again and I kept getting the same muddled sound that I knew just wasn’t right. Once I got the scale I was able to see that the downforce on the needle was WAY too much, once I backed it off it sounded 1000 times better. Also, too much downforce on the needle will ruin your vinyl prematurely. The second thing was an anti static platter mat, which helped a little with the popping. Also get yourself a really good dust brush.
Dust brushes come in a few different styles. I have been using the skinny one I listed first below but I am going to order the 2nd one I’ve listed soon, it looks promising. The other is like a shave cream style that I’ve heard others say works very well.
Good Luck! Keep us posted on what solves your issue!
The audioquest one is supposed to be one of the best.
I cheaped out and bought the Boundless one from Amazon based on reviews and have no complaints.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071DWG4C8/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_2Dd1DbHK7VEFR
I also bought this basic cleaning kit. I was looking at the spin clean and the record doctor but most of my vinyl is new and this seems to do the job.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DVSTBXM/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_EFd1DbJX72NPB
You may want to invest in the Spin Clean ($80): https://www.amazon.com/Starter-Record-Blucoil-Anti-Static-Cleaning/dp/B07583WQM9/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1518734882&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=spin+clean&psc=1
I use this it works pretty well. Lots of times I just give my record a once over with the brush.
I use compressed air (computer duster, no residue) to clean the brush and get the dust off the LP that the brush leaves in a line. I've found [this] (http://www.amazon.com/STANTON-MAGNETICS-Record-Cleaner-Kit/dp/B00006I5UH) liquid solution to be great in reducing static and therefore dust accumulation. I've spent a fortune on that duster shit but I think it's worth it in the long run.
2 Questions:
What cleaning solutions do you guys recommend? I was looking at this: https://www.amazon.com/RD1006-Discwasher-Vinyl-Record-Cleaning/dp/B0009K63IY/ref=s9u_simh_gw_i1?_encoding=UTF8&fpl=fresh&pd_rd_i=B0009K63IY&pd_rd_r=0RBGWDW22Y2KYJW0EEB0&pd_rd_w=6wuY0&pd_rd_wg=Hib9d&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=&pf_rd_r=RPPERM6X4W0MA2DQNBGG&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=781f4767-b4d4-466b-8c26-2639359664eb&pf_rd_i=desktop
2. How many tracking force is too much? I usually have my tone weight set at around 2.5 grams but I've read that it may be too much and may be damaging my albums...
personally for me, I wait until I have enough records to make it worth my while to sit down on a rainy day and use the SpinClean. In the mean time, I do a quick over with a microfiber pad like this:
https://www.amazon.com/RD1006-Discwasher-Vinyl-Record-Cleaning/dp/B0009K63IY/ref=pd_sbs_267_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=JPP6NYN475FJKNNRJZ6J
I wet one edge and wipe it down a few times in each direction, then use the other edge to "dry" the remaining moisture off. This is my process for any new record that hasn't gotten a full cleaning and Disckeeper inners. It takes less than a minute per side and removes any large particles and cleans up pops but doesn't fully de-static the record unless youre using the included D4 solution (I did until I ran out and never ordered more).
I’m a fan of the discwasher. A lot of people use them and they do a decent job. The new one is different than the old ones which were more like a velvet material. Now they are corduroy-like and seem a bit more abrasive. I used a new one for a while before finding a 70s one at an estate sale a few years ago. My local shop uses the new version before putting anything on, so I think the new version is just fine too. You can go through the fluid pretty quickly though, so it’s good to stock up when it’s a good price (which I am not seeing on amazon right now, hmm...)
I generally use an anti static brush as well afterwards just in case.
Bonus question: anyone have any experience with this? It was recommended to me but has mixed reviews on Amazon. Thanks!
I don't know much about powder dosing robots, but have you tried hitting it with a zerostat gun?
https://www.amazon.com/Milty-Zerostat-Anti-Static-Gun-Blue/dp/B0033SHDSS
I love these things
Time to add a Zerostat OP: https://smile.amazon.com/Milty-5036694022153-Zerostat-Anti-Static-Blue/dp/B0033SHDSS/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=zerostat&qid=1565749682&s=gateway&sr=8-3
I use the zerostat. It's not at all perfect, but it does help here in the winter months.
here it is on amazon for $100.
http://www.amazon.com/MILTY-ZEROSTAT-ANTI-STATIC-GUN-BLUE/dp/B0033SHDSS
My Zerostat goes rat a tat tat. Why are you resisting? A quick hundo on Amazon and your static is gone.
We use an antistatic gun. Like this one
Milty 5036694022153 Zerostat 3 Anti-Static Gun, Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0033SHDSS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_EOGYDb477EMAF
Works like a charm to prevent the powder from sticking to the sides of the vial
Try one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Milty-Zerostat-Anti-Static-Gun-Blue/dp/B0033SHDSS
they're very effective in my opinion.
I use the Spin Clean, it's probably the cheapest way to safely clean records short of doing the wood glue thing, which I would not recommend for cleaning more than 2 or 3 records.
I'll second this, as I'm really digging it lately too. It's basically a sticky roller that picks up all dust/fuzz/etc in its path. Of course, it isn't intended to replace wet cleaning, but seems great for light maintenance.
Here's a link:
http://www.amazon.com/In-The-Groove-Record-Cleaner/dp/B004MG9YYQ
I like a microfiber cloth. It works super well, cheap, easy to clean.
They do cause static in low humidity environments, so a quick wipe with a fabric softener sheet takes that out.
If you have the scratch, however, this brush kicks all sorts of ass. It's not really a brush, but it wont static up your records and cleaning it is a cinch. IMO it works better than any brush.
hm, there is another type of brush ... a velvet brush http://www.amazon.com/Pfanstiehl-Record-Cleaning-Kit/dp/B0042ASW5O/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1427812365&sr=8-10&keywords=velvet+record+brush. It is good for wet cleaning . There's also sticky tack cleaner (no experience) http://www.amazon.com/In-The-Groove-Record-Cleaner/dp/B004MG9YYQ/ref=pd_sim_sbs_p_5?ie=UTF8&refRID=0QB8H8EBMR5D3RMXVY01 and classic discwasher brush system http://www.amazon.com/RCA-RD-1006-Discwasher-Record-System/dp/B000KMZKTO/ref=pd_sim_sbs_p_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=0QB8H8EBMR5D3RMXVY01
I use a carbon fiber brush, but I just hold it in place so it only goes with the grooves. I then use this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004MG9YYQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1427659444&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=in+the+grove+record+cleaner to clean up the line of dust left after I pick up the brush. Works well and doesn't really add static as long as you don't push down on the roller.
I bought this one and it seems to give my vinyl a good cleaning...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C5N0CTY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have both vinyl styl brushes (Suprising build quality and I think they are great)
However this is the better one for picking up dust.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00C5N0CTY/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1418690578&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SY200_QL40
You don't have to use the fluid, it has a little iso alc., which freaks some people out but it's a very small amount as an evaporant (?)
Anyways, the brushes most have linked are antistatic brushes more than cleaning. I recommend both.
I just bought a stylus cleaning brush, after using it I noticed more cracks and pops coming from my records, the music sounds fine, it´s just the surface noise. I have an AT95E and it didn´t use to sound that way, I tried cleaning my records with distiled water + alcohol + microfiber cloth and it didn´t make any change.
Did I damaged the stylus or is it static + dust? I don´t have a Zerostat gun so I can´t be sure about the static part.
Thanks.
2 Things, I would invest in a Spin-Clean: https://spinclean.com
Yes its a tad expensive but makes a world a difference and is a safe way to clean all your records. I have one myself and its worth it if you want to safely clean and preserve your records. Plus its a nice relaxing experience.
Also I would also look into cleaning your stylus. It doesn't take much to build up debris on the stylus and that can absolutely affect how your records sound. There are many ways to do it, I use this: https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-Stylus-Cleaning-Kit/dp/B00C77D6DW
some people have their own ways of doing it, but again like before this can and will make a world of difference for your records and help not damage them in the long run.
Lastly, I love this guys channel, he has a slew of videos that answer a lot of questions you may have.
This one is great for tips about clean your stylus: https://youtu.be/KQMe_YOaGjQ
And this one is great just for overall questions about cleaning everything: https://youtu.be/j8ggzzDwMjs
http://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-72311-Stylus-Cleaning/dp/B00C77D6DW
Good price and will do the trick!
What about this? https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-Record-Vacuum-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484781005&sr=8-1&keywords=vinyl+vacuum
Are you aware of this thing? https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-33-Record-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0 It's not terribly expensive and would probably work better than a piece of velvet with a hole in it.
Best I could find it's not the same brand, but it's the exact same product.
Trying to decide on a record cleaner (and hopefully kill static). The obvious choice is the Spin Clean, but I've heard that some people have had issues with it and the brushes, leaving surface noise on the records. I also found this, which is very similar:
https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-Groove-Record-Washer/dp/B01M0LRLM5/ref=pd_sbs_23_4?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01M0LRLM5&pd_rd_r=B5896DCX415ECAK13EDM&pd_rd_w=KiFln&pd_rd_wg=WP8Yn&psc=1&refRID=B5896DCX415ECAK13EDM
I like the fact that it has a drying rack too. Has anyone used one of these? And how does it stack up against the Spin Clean?
I was also looking at one of these vacuum things, but I don't know how thorough it would be compared to a wet cleaning.
https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-Record-Vacuum-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1492965447&sr=8-15&keywords=spin+clean
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!
Instead of a RCM, buy this and a cheap shop vac, if you don't have one already. Find any old broken turntable from Goodwill and use it as a lazy suzan. This setup works even better than an RCM. Make your own cleaning fluid using 0.8x distilled water, 0.2% isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher), and 0.004x surfactant (I use one tiny drop of dish soap per 250ml). Use a cheap brush to spread the fluid, I like this one. The SP-3 is a legendary integrated amplifier. A phono stage is not a complex circuit. Much like modern DACs, hugely overpriced units are a profit center for companies marketing to those who don't know what's going on inside the chassis.
I use the following cleaner and liquid, it works really well:
https://www.amazon.com/Record-Cleaning-Static-Records-Cleaner/dp/B07BJMBM2F
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017U7LK40
I recently bought some TergiKleen which was recommended by the Library of Congress as well as some other sites I saw. Would it still be wise to buy a spin clean and use the distilled water + TergiKleen to clean vinyls? Using the sink or plastic tub method seems like I'd have to really wash all the dirty vinyls at once, instead of as needed with a spin clean.
this thing called Tergitol seems to have good Amazon user feedback.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B019YI38Z2/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492858492&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=tergitol&dpPl=1&dpID=51udtdfw5zL&ref=plSrch
here's a couple bits of advice for you:
enjoy your vinyl experience, vro.
There you go:
https://www.amazon.com/Collector-Protector-Cleaner-Combination-Sounding/dp/B01EG5502W
I bought mine at my local vinyl store.
You clean brand new albums? Is that just to be certain? I've only recently gotten into listening to some of the records I've collected for years and have one of these for cleaning off dust but haven't done more than that to any of them.
I'm really tight on cash at the moment but I'm gonna test this out. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01EG5502W/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (I'm a poor college student, haha.)
I haven’t listened to the clear pressing yet but I’ve had issues with static/skipping on IAAN and Deja - they all went away after I purchased this (below) and started using it to clean off my vinyl before (and after..) playing. Not sure if you have one or something similar but it works wonders!
Audio-Technica AT6011 Anti-Static Record Brush https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GE1ZOPY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_SGc.zbECS8PAC
What's the best way to make sure my record collection lasts a long time? Is it fine to just store them on a shelf as is in a cool area? Or is it advised to store each in their own polypropylene sleeves like these here? New to collecting so I want to make sure I'm doing everything right.
Also cleaning. Am I good with just one of those brushes like this? Or do I need some spray too?
Hi!
Interesting find on amazon yesterday. This looks exactly like a spin-wash, significantly cheaper. Anyone heard of it?
I've actually heard this one (basically a clone of a Spin Clean) works great
I have this cheap knock off from Amazon and it works great for me. Cleans the records. I fill the bay with distilled water and put some record cleaning solution on the pads.
Anyone have thoughts on a knock off like this one
If $50 is more in your price range, my neighbor has one of these and likes it. http://amzn.to/2hmKXSS - and there are other sellers there selling it for a few bucks less (about $44).
Thoughts on vinyl-styl washer vs spin-clean? The vinyl-style seems like a better product, and it costs less than spin-clean, but spin clean seems like it's far more popular. Not sure if I'm missing something important, though.
https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-Groove-Record-Washer/dp/B01M0LRLM5
I use this brush to clean them and it works well.
After a wet clean, also use a record brush - I spin outward to get the dust off the record, then a second go round inward touching the spindle to discharge static.
I recently went to using this brush and no longer have the occasional static after playing a side.
However if you're in a really dry climate, you'll need to go to a Milty.
old style
new style
Finally, I want to buy some vinyl care products. Of course like the wiki tells us I should get this anti static brush, and I want to get a stylus gauge. Is this one fine?
What do y'all do when you receive NEW vinyl in sub-standard condition?
E.g., I received a couple of albums from Secretly (I know, I know) recently. The audio quality hasn't been stellar, but I just purchased a brush to hopefully help with dust/static. But one of the cardboard sleeves has some slight damage along one of the seams (it's not split, but it's peeling a little bit), and the inner paper sleeve is split on multiple sides.
Do you complain to the retailer or just live with the imperfections?
Was wondering if theBoundless Audio Record Cleaner Brush - Vinyl Cleaning Carbon Fiber Anti-Static Record Brush was any good
Definitely an issue with the stylus on that turn table... Also keep your records clean by using a record brush and stylus brush!
A Turntable I highly recommend and own myself is the U-Turn Orbit - https://uturnaudio.com/ they are made right here in the US in Massachusetts, and they have phenomenal customer service! I had an issue with my motor, it was making a slight noise, still worked as expected though, the same day they sent me a replacement motor and gave me step by step instructions how to replace at no cost at all!
My Stylus Brush - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GJRDYGG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
My Record Cleaning Brush - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071DWG4C8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Hey all. Two weeks ago I posted about how I was getting a lot of static electricity on my records after playing a few songs. Link here. I have since bought anti static sleeves and wet washed my records, since one of the comments (which is now deleted) suggested wet washing new records. After that the static problem got a lot better! Every now and then there will be a little bit of charge but I think it is now in reasonable levels. But, even though there is little to no electric charge after playing my records, they still sound as if they are very charged. I've only had these records for a little over a month and they sound like I've been playing them non stop for 10 years. Is it possible the static permanently popped/damaged my records? I use my brush every time I take one out of it's sleeve, and I take good care of them, so I don't think its just because of dust. Any thoughts/advice greatly appreciated!
Anyone have experience with this Boundless Audio brush (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071DWG4C8/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3EE0NSOGXQKDJ&psc=1)? Can't seem to find any info on it besides the Amazon reviews.
I just purchased my first vinyl and audio system. Waiting for it all to arrive but is there anything I need to do to the record itself before playing it? Some people seem to wash it/clean it first even with brand new vinyl. I bought a Vinyl Buddy. I've also heard this Hunt Carbon Fiber Brush is a must have but I've just spent a ton on this equipment so not ready to buy that yet.
Any other process to do before playing a brand new record? I got mofi sleeves because I heard the regular ones can damage the vinyl.
1 Record Cleaner Kit - Complete 4-in-1 Vinyl Cleaning Solution, Includes Velvet Record Brush, XL Cleaning Liquid, Stylus Brush and Travel Pouch! Will NOT Scratch Your Records! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DVSTBXM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1dRgDb9JCM4WA
So cool! Don’t forget to buy supplies to clean the records so they last longer and sound better (also so the needle lasts longer). I use a kit very similar to this Record Cleaning Kit
I'm guessing you're switching the TT from phono to line when changing the input. Are you also changing it on the receiver? Plugging it into phono when phono is selected and plugging it into Aux when line is selected?
I'd say that the pops are due to the records and not the receiver. Get a record cleaning kit and give your LPs a good cleaning. Even new records can stand to be brushed before playing.