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I find that cleaning used records very difficult

Hi
I buy many used records from thrift shops and used Records Stores. I ussually play them 1st if they are decent. I'm finding out that many times that eaven thought the records looks like it needs cleaning. I play it and it actually has the true Vinyl sound ( Thats great but it looks dirty)and as soon as I wash it with my $500.00 record machine and distilled water, it seemes to lose that deep bass on guitar or other instruments.
Its like it leaves a layer of something that takes away the highs and lows.
.
I even had a few records cleaned on much more Expensive machines like $4,000.00 machine and it also seems to do the same thing.

Has anyone one else experienced this and does anyone have a better way of cleaning records.
macallan25
elizabeth
6,726 posts
 
I keep a brush just for the vacuum cleaner I have slightly modified. i first 'softened' the bristle ends of the vacuum attachment with a bit of emery paper. By wearing out the ends, they are softer/no sharp ends). Then i added a trace of silicone (some folks hate this stuff, but i am happy with it in the brush) to the bristles.
It makes them even softer, and totally cuts the static.
(Just one treatment, then wiping any excess off with papaer towels worked fine.) I keep that attachment separate, and i never use it for regular cleaning.
chadnliz's avatar
chadnliz
3,736 posts
 
Sounds like a pretty lengthy process though Elizabeth, how much is your time worth because after awhile it adds up. I have never heard albums sound worse after a spin on VPI, have you tried steam? It works great!
davide256's avatar
davide256
362 posts
 
I've been using a basic Nitty Gritty vacuum machine since 1985... so long as I use quality rcord cleaner fluids it improves any record cleaned by removing microdust that causes pops and will often remove mold release compound still clinging in the groove. Only maintenance needed is periodic replacement of the fabric buffer on the vacuum slot.

Does your cleaning approach meet the following criteria?

1) professional record cleaning solution used to rub into all grooves
2) tight groove contact vacuum applied immediately after record cleaning solution used to removed dissolved solids and soluble material.

If not then your symptom is easily understood, you are creating mud and its being left in the groove.
macallan25 OP
52 posts
 
Hi
Could you please explain in detail the Steam clean method, plus were did U get the Steamer? either here or pproy@telus.net thanks
photon46
1,008 posts
 
There are oodles of threads on this subject here and on other audio sites. Just type "steam cleaning" in the search function on the forum page. Also, look for "steam cleaning vinyl records" on youtube. Any autoparts store carries steam cleaners there days. If you don't mind paying a steep mark up:

http://shop.mapleshadestore.com/Deep-Cleaning-System/products/119/
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