Deep Cleaning Records With Steam?

How far away do you hold the steamer? Maybe I got too close and cooked my record? I was holding it probably an inch or two away. Is that too close?

That's to close... The average number is 5-6" away from the record. I use it closer in a rush if their is some point that needs an extra but for a very short application.

D: It seems Steam Cleaning removed the most objectionable pops and ticks. You mentioned ,these LPs are "Garage" finds nothing wrong with that, but underlying previous owner abuse or pressing noises can be revealed by a good cleaning. Sometimes we luck out and other times we don't with trash-bin finds. I do it all the time.

Also, you mentioned "soap" and I don't recommend "soap" due to the fact it can cling to the grove sides like cement. Generic Record Fluids, to home-brew, to any of the Hi-Fi Cleaning Fluids great , but I never had any sucess with "soap".

This thread has revealed some record fluids such as "Last and Sound Guard" ,to mention a few, do appear to have ageing problems that contribute to objectionable noise. When we buy second-hand you never know what to expect.

Personally, I have not heard a "wisk" sound but on some finds I have heard a "cutting-head" or "scraping noise" . For me I just return them to Goodwill in the form of a donation for that other person who may be satisified.

I use the "perfection" steamer with absolutely no deleterious effects. If you hear extra noise, I suggest that you steamed some extremely dirty "garage" records and may have moved the dirt to a new place. Try steaming the same record again and see (hear) what happens

what you might be hearing is a bearing or platter noise versus the record. Do you hear the noise on any of your new or quiet vinyl? if so, see if it has a pattern with the revolution. on my gyrodec, when the oil level got a little low, i would hear a faint rub. Just an idea. I have used the steamer process and not heard the sound you discuss though i do have one album that resists all attempts so far to clean