EV-1 Record Cleaning Machine
After using other methods for years I started to look into Vinyl Record Cleaning Machines. My records have appreciated a lot in the past 8 years and I am always looking for the best way to clean and care for my albums.
There are two machines that I would recommend. Two are on the lower end of the price range for Record cleaning machines and one is a mid-level priced machine.
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The first machine is the EV-1 from KAB USA. The EV-1 is basically the top half of the Nitty Gritty Record Cleaning Machine. The EV-1 requires a vacuum to be hooked up to it instead of being built in. I highly recommend the EV-1 as you will not have to worry about the motor burning out.
It is also about $200 cheaper even when you include cleaning fluid and shipping. Add a 1.75 peak hp vacuum and you are ready to go. Vac sweep replacement kits are available when you need to replace your velvet pads. These are the same pads used on the Nitty Gritty.
Record Doctor V
The second is the Record Doctor V – Vinyl Record Cleaning Machine . This is a great unit that has a built in vac. It operates much like the EV-1 as you have to turn both manually. I would recommend the Record Doctor if you have space constraints.
Since the EV-1 requires and external vac it takes up considerably more room both while in use and in storage. Cleaning is a snap with this RCM. Plug it in, turn it on and you will be on your way to some great sounding vinyl.
I tried this unit due to all the very positive reviews out there and was not disappointed. I decided to go with the EV-1 in the end though because I have the room for it and liked that I would not have to worry about a internal vacuum failure.
iSonic Motorized Ultrasonic Vinyl Record Cleaner for 5 12” to 10” Records, 2 Gal/7.5L, 110V
Now I know this is far, far, far from a budget cleaning system. I am including this as a recommendation due to overwhelming praise I have heard from fellow audiophiles.
If nothing else take a look at this unit on Amazon and weigh the cost benefits for yourself. I plan to continue to look into and possibly save up for this unit. Ultrasonic cleaning is absolutely the cream of the crop when it comes to keeping your collection in pristine condition.
Check this item out here on Amazon – and you can even setup alerts to let you know when the price drops!!
This is a great website. I have a lot of vinyl collections in storage and not sure whether they still sound perfectly. The suggestions and I ideas here are something worth trying. I’m looking at the machines. How often do you have to clean vinyl with the machine? Just thinking that if I purchase one, would it only be used once a year in which case, should I rather go for cheaper options?
I cleaned all of my 500+ LP’s once each after I purchased my machine. Even brand new vinyl should be cleaned on a machine at least once because there is an anti-mold solution applied to them after they are pressed. I have read that this can have a negative effect on your stylus. I tend to clean my vinyl on the machine now only when it looks like it needs a deep clean. I do however use it very often on used records purchased online or at thrift stores. It actually can make an amazing difference on these. I would recommend a record cleaning machine if you have a large collection or if you would be cleaning LP’s to put up for sale online. If you have a collection of 100 or less and do not need to deep clean dirtier vinyl very often I would recommend a wet cleaning brush used in combination with a carbon fiber brush. Thanks for the great comment! I hope I have been of some help in your search for the right cleaning method for you. Whatever you choose to clean them with just pulling them out of storage and enjoying them again is always a fun time. Happy listening, and best wishes.