Yet another happy user since 1982 here. I can't say that it improves the sound quality, but it does drop surface noise near to the limit of whatever the vinyl material can deliver. That might seem like it improves the sound simply because the S/N ratio is maximized.
I have found LAST works quite well on all the vinyl I've purchased pressed from ~1955 to the present. As others have noted, the key is starting with a clean, dry surface. If the vinyl is new, I use the LAST Power Cleaner (mold release remover) first, then I use an ultrasonic cleaner with distilled water and a splash of LAST machine cleaner solution for everything, new or used. Another wet clean with LAST cleaning solution and my trusty Discwasher brush, a thorough dry and then the surface is ready for preservative. If you've gotten everything right, you can actually feel the preservative bonding with the vinyl while applying it; the brush seems to move with less friction. I'm sure that's due to the molecular effects visible in the micrographs referenced above.
FWIW, I've also used Stylast and the LAST stylus cleaner since they became available. I've never identified any audible difference, but I can say I've never worn out a stylus. The magnets have gone south first.
From my perspective, a good value proposition for a modest investment in happy listening.
I have found LAST works quite well on all the vinyl I've purchased pressed from ~1955 to the present. As others have noted, the key is starting with a clean, dry surface. If the vinyl is new, I use the LAST Power Cleaner (mold release remover) first, then I use an ultrasonic cleaner with distilled water and a splash of LAST machine cleaner solution for everything, new or used. Another wet clean with LAST cleaning solution and my trusty Discwasher brush, a thorough dry and then the surface is ready for preservative. If you've gotten everything right, you can actually feel the preservative bonding with the vinyl while applying it; the brush seems to move with less friction. I'm sure that's due to the molecular effects visible in the micrographs referenced above.
FWIW, I've also used Stylast and the LAST stylus cleaner since they became available. I've never identified any audible difference, but I can say I've never worn out a stylus. The magnets have gone south first.
From my perspective, a good value proposition for a modest investment in happy listening.