Which Record Cleaning Machine?


I have a discussion forum buddy in Belgium who runs a video rental store. He's a big jazz-on-vinyl enthusiast, and vinyl playback in Europe is pretty popular--popular enough that he has trouble finding any used jazz LPs on vinyl for sale over there.

Anyway, he was thinking of installing a record cleaning machine in his shop to attract more customers and to provide a service to fellow vinylphiles.

His question to me is which RCM would be the better choice within his budget--the $1295 VPI HW-17F or something from Loricraft?

Thanks in advance.
johnnyb53
I have read this in other threads concerning a cooling fan for 16.5. Sounds like a great idea and glad its working for you Mark and all else. Thats what makes this site so good for all. The more minds the better the ideas.
I would like to mention that the addition of the cooling fan did have one downside. And that is, it made the 16.5 even louder yet. Yes, this addition of another hole serves as an exit for sound more easily leaving the machine. It cannot be helped, unless this problem is adressed in some other way, with perhaps lining the machine with some sound deadening materials,

The loud vacuum sound has went from a horrid muffled roar, to almost a gun-shot startling experience when hitting that Vacuum Motor Switch.

Other ideas that come to mind, is a stand that somehow encases the machine, but of course the easiest, is a pair of headphones tolisten to some tunes while you clean.

I did a two hour run this morning in fact. Regardless of the loud sound, I have no regrets buying th 16.5.
Mark
I think any loud RCM must be relegated to the back room of a store or for after hours cleaning with earplugs in to protect hearing.

The only RCM I have seen at record stores are VPI's and they are used in back rooms.

I think the visual aspect of having other customers see the cleaning of an LP happen is crucial for marketing the service, and educating people as to the sonic benefits and longevity of clean vinyl.

I'd definitely put the thing in full view and clean LP while people are in the shop - if necessary put a mirror mounted over it so people can really see the action.

In this instance I think the Loricraft PRC3 (or 4) with a lucite cover fits the bill.

I recently saw someone's Loricraft machine that was filthy - which defeats the purpose. I paid the extra $200 to get my PRC3 with the lucite cover. It keeps it clean and makes it look quite a bit nicer when not in use than a blue printer cover.

For an individual I understand the cost may be prohibitive, but for a business, I think it's the only way to go - unless money is no object than by all means suggest the Keith Monks.
Well the OP talked about the 1.2k VPI 17 or a loricraft.... so i'm personally confused about the budget available.

I've seen/heard the loricraft in action and it's one gorgeous piece of machinery. Quiet too.

I'll repeat my plug (no relation) for Hannl. Seen the mini in action and was suprisingly quiet. Believe this goes for low 2k. Maybe a good alternative if budget doesn't stretch to a loricraft or keith monks.