I usually prefer to clean new records before playing them for the first time. Even brand-new albums can have some dust, paper residue or manufacturing debris left in the grooves. It only takes a few minutes to clean them properly, and it helps keep both the stylus and the record in good condition. That said, I'm sure plenty of people just play them straight out of the sleeve. I think it also depends on how carefully the records have been stored and handled before reaching you.
Vinyl Cleaning Question
- Thread starter MDP
- Start date
Randy Myers
Well-known member
My cleaning efforts have evolved as my machines and cleaning supplies have.
I Ultrasonic clean as soon as the album gets opened. Always replace the inner sleeve with a Mo-Fi or similar and a plastic Acoustic Sounds outer sleeve. All records get the same treatment, and all records get wet cleaned using a goat-hair brush and distilled water spray, and then an anti-static brush as a minimal prior too playing.
I also use Last stylus cleaner and Last Stylast preservative every play. I have used Last products forever and have never had a stylus wear out, and yes, I have had a couple stylus break (my ex broke my Grace Ruby stylus when she was "cleaning" my turntable, it was a terrible thing to see).
I Ultrasonic clean as soon as the album gets opened. Always replace the inner sleeve with a Mo-Fi or similar and a plastic Acoustic Sounds outer sleeve. All records get the same treatment, and all records get wet cleaned using a goat-hair brush and distilled water spray, and then an anti-static brush as a minimal prior too playing.
I also use Last stylus cleaner and Last Stylast preservative every play. I have used Last products forever and have never had a stylus wear out, and yes, I have had a couple stylus break (my ex broke my Grace Ruby stylus when she was "cleaning" my turntable, it was a terrible thing to see).
Bones13
Active member
I use my older VPI 16.5 RCM. I modded it by adding a cooling fan, with separate switch, and sealed the top area with silicone caulking, which is how it is still working. (I should invest in one of the metal versions) I have separate cleaning brushes, and suction wands for the 3 solutions that I use.
On used vinyl, I do a 3 step - enzyme cleaner, regular cleaner, and follow with water rinse.
New vinyl, and repeat cleanings are just regular cleaner and rinse.
I use some sort of brush before every play, and dip the needle in one of those sticky pad units from time to time.
On used vinyl, I do a 3 step - enzyme cleaner, regular cleaner, and follow with water rinse.
New vinyl, and repeat cleanings are just regular cleaner and rinse.
I use some sort of brush before every play, and dip the needle in one of those sticky pad units from time to time.