|
Vacuum Record Cleaning Machines
For some years now, the most effective methods of deep
cleaning LPs have employed vacuum. This process utilizes
a cleaning solution and hand held brush to loosen the dirt
and debris trapped in the bottom of the grooves. The final
step introduces a vacuum removal system to lift the dirty
solution from the grooves, leaving clean vinyl behind.
Although effective, vacuum record cleaning machines have
been quite expensive. In the late '70s the Keith Monks machine
from Britain was introduced, making it the first of the
vacuum machines to appear. However, selling at over $2500.00,
it was beyond the reach of most audiophiles. In 1980 Harry
Weisfeld at VPI developed a low cost alternative to the
Monks machine. His design employed a far simpler, yet equally
effective, approach to the problem. This machine has been
refined over the years into what is known today as the HW
16.5. Thousands have been sold world-wide, to a broad range
of satisfied users. Individual collectors, audiophiles,
music libraries, record stores and radio stations have all
realized the practical benefits of owning such a machine.
The effectiveness of the vacuum record cleaning process
is startling. These machines can literally transform a dirty
record into a sparkling vinyl disc that sounds better than
new. Of course no machine can repair damage to the vinyl,
but the dust, dirt and other contaminants that obscure subtle
detail are totally removed, with astonishing results. Even
new, un-played records are contaminated with mold release
compound which obscures detail. Removal of this material
will improve performance.
It is likely that many of your favorite records are irreplaceable,
some may be worth a good deal of money. It makes sense to
protect your investment. Did you know that playing a dirty
record can cause irreparable damage to the vinyl? Dust,
dirt and debris, that have accumulated over time in the
grooves of your LPs, presents a potential hazard if contacted
by the stylus during play. Such a collision between stylus
and dust creates what is known as a conchoidal shock
wave. This event can actually pit the groove wall causing
a permanent, irreparable damage, resulting in a "click"
or "pop," to be heard on every successive pass.
The only way to avoid this damage is to make certain that
the grooves of your records are scrupulously clean. The
best way to deep-clean your records is with a vacuum record
cleaning machine, then use a good dry brush before each
play as maintenance.
We feel the VPI units are superior to all other units
we have tested. The construction quality, reliability, ease
of maintenance and efficiency of design, are features that
make the VPI an obvious choice. Interestingly, the Library
of Congress has chosen VPI to maintain their collection
of 126,000+ discs.
Click on the link below to get one of the superb VPI
16.5 machines for your very own!
|
