Nitty Gritty

[Pure_Brew]

Along with my daydreaming about all this nice TT's, carts and preamp, I get to thinking about cleaning.

I've seen plenty of suggestions that some people are satisfied with when it comes to cleaning records. There are preferences and likes/disliked here and across the net. But one thing that seems to be most agreed upon, are what these cleaning machines do for playback.

As I build my collection, mostly used, and think about wear I can't help but feel concerned. Those nice MC carts have to be re-tipped, and leftover stuff in the grooves will not only add to the wear of the needle, but also create uneven wear on the record too.

Seems to me that while even the most basic models of these machines are expensive, there are some long term benefits that make them seem like a good investment.

Currently, everything in my playback system for vinyl works well. The AT440mla on the SL-23, the Bellari VP130, Jolida 502brc integrated and the Snell EII's

While it is likely that I could get better performance from upgrading any of those components, the fact remains that it still begins with record and needle, and I listen daily.

So basically, I'm talking myself into this purchase prior to upgrades or repair of old gear I have.

Comment appreciated.

Cheers

 

[Fairchild]

Nitty Gritty's are very nice machines. Many others have made homebrew versions. I have been using a Spin Clean I bought several years ago at Garage a Records, they are also available on Ebay and probably other places.

http://www.garage-a-records.com/categories.php?cat=116

Seems they only carry parts now.

Here is Spn Cleans site.

http://www.spincleanrecordwasher.com/

Jim.

 

[Pure_Brew]

Thank you sir. Larry had suggested it as well, looks like one of the better products prior to going with a cleaning machine. The is also a chance for B-Stock NG as well if and when I bite the bullet.

 

[Elite-ist]

I need a record cleaning machine. I'm trying to do a recording from older jazz vinyl for an upcoming mix MiniDisc, and I have had to defer recording some great tunes because of the background noise.

I can get a VPI 16.5, but new here they are over $500 at Innovative Audio.

Nando.

 

[Pure_Brew]

Well, that would be the gift for the man who has everything now wouldnt it lol.

$500 seems like a fair price for a VPI 16.5.

 

[Pure_Brew]

I can accept noise more if I know it's not dirt that can cause damage. Likely if I get this, I will probably use my old method first, put it on the machine last. Unless it is very visibly clean to begin with.

For recording, Jazz and classical can be tough as there is not always enough music signal to mask that noise. Lots of space in between.

 

[Elite-ist]

Well, that would be the gift for the man who has everything now wouldnt it lol.

$500 seems like a fair price for a VPI 16.5.

Joe: I'm budgeting for something better and bigger than a record cleaning machine. I'm going to make do until the next time I can do better on a Sunday collection. Doesn't anyone go to church anymore?

Nando.

 

[Pure_Brew]

Budgeting audio-wise? I think of church every Sunday, been a long time.

 

[Elite-ist]

Budgeting audio-wise? I think of church every Sunday, been a long time.

Joe: Yes, definitely old-school audio. Fits my personality.

Nando.

 

[Pure_Brew]

What are you thinking about getting or what's in the works?

 

[Elite-ist]

I will feel better once I pay for it first, before making an announcement. Once it has been paid for, and the well-known and respected seller is comfortable with an announcement, I will let you all know. And the purchase price is confidential between myself and the seller!

Nando.

 

[Fast Forward]

This stuff work wonders for my collection

 

[Elite-ist]

This stuff work wonders for my collection

You got spunk, FF. My main use of SOS pads are for cleaning up the raised whilte lettering on my BFG radial tires.

Nando.

 

[Fast Forward]

[quote="Fast Forward":smoiasgg]This stuff work wonders for my collection

You got spunk, FF. My main use of SOS pads are for cleaning up the raised whilte lettering on my BFG radial tires.

Nando.[/quote:smoiasgg]SOS for RWL Isn,t that what a belt Sander is for,?

 

[Pure_Brew]

 

[Elite-ist]

Joe: Now that's a multi-purpose tool. You can do your classical LPs and the front side walk.

Nando.

 

[Fairchild]

I'll bet that tool would even take care of the grooves on a Disco Lp. lol

Jim

 

[Pure_Brew]

You actually can use a soft toothbrush with a little dish washing liquid on 78's prior to the late 30's. But then, you could play those records... with a NAIL.

NG does have a special formula for records of that era however. No alcohol!

 

[Fairchild]

Yep, and others used a stick.

Jim

 

[Pure_Brew]

I've tried the wooden needles but they are not readily available and you need the cutter. Nice warm tone on old victrolas.