How Well Does The Destat III Work?

I tackle the task of testing the Furutech Desat III against static. If that's your thing, you've found your place. Welcome to the Vinyl Attack!
0:00 - Intro
1:40 - The Destat
4:41 - Testing The Ground Theory
5:57 - On or Off The Table?
7:58 - Test 1
9:11 - Test 2
10:57 - Test 3A
13:22 - Test 3B
15:10 - Test 4
16:43 - Test 5
17:35 - Test 6
19:18 - Epilogue
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[@michaeltuohy1249]

I love my Destat III. It works incredibly well, and increases enjoyment of my record collection. Worth every penny, for me.

[@thevinylattack]

Same here.

[@robinwoodbury2563]

I truly admire the discipline and scientific method rigor (within practical limits) you employed in this video (and many others) as well as the well thought out camera shots and copious editing---you are an editing BEAST, good Sir!

[@thevinylattack]

Wow, thank you!

[@alvarovelasco5217]

Congratulations on your tests, transparency and improvements. Thank you very much.

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks for the encouragement.

[@inkedaudiophile7546]

Great job on your vids! Thanks for taking the time of doing those experiments!

[@thevinylattack]

You're quite welcome.

[@leonardfreeman7218]

Love your well reasoned thoughtful approach - great findings

[@thevinylattack]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@marcopolov673]

Wow wow wow!!! What a spectacular video! Thank you so much for doing this so methodically. And you even included control tests! I will forever reference this video because it is that good. Keep up the fantastic work, I for one truly appreciate your hard work and dedication. Thanks so much amigo Chris, I hope the vinyl community appreciates this video as much as they should. Congratulations! 👍🏼🤘🏼😎🤘🏼👍🏼

[@thevinylattack]

I'm glad to hear you liked it so much. This one was a bit of a pain to put together so your comment helps.

[@audiorick841]

After the static is removed by holding the record, it would be interesting to measure if any static is reintroduced by using an “anti-static” record brush. Gotta remove the surface dust before I drop the needle after all 😁

[@thevinylattack]

It's something I'm looking at :-)

[@hemirush1443]

Yes I would be interested in that also

[@jeffglotzer9346]

Any brush adds static through friction. I have both this for 2 years and the Zerostat for decades. Every brush adds static electricity. This unit is better than the Zerostat, but not anywhere as good as the DS Audio.

[@ColocasiaCorm]

i would want to know if the brush is more effective now that the record is de-static'ed.

[@mspdec]

@@jeffglotzer9346 or the CS Port IME1 which also has a Demagnetiser as well !

[@JtBrown-el4xt]

Great video, dude. Answered every question I had. Cant wait for the battle of the static killers!

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks, I was hoping to get as much answered as possible.

[@leon9021]

Halleluja, this video is the holy grail of record static treatment methods. Will link it henceforth. I had heard of static migrating to the underside of the record before but this shows that something of the sort is actually happening. Looking forward to the 3 devices showdown!

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks much for the encouragement. I'm looking forward to the showdown myself, should be fun.

[@jim_wicks]

Thanks for reviewing and testing the Destat III. Your tests proved what my ears told me when I first heard a demo of this little unit, which is how and why I bought my Destat III. Simply put, it makes static one and done. Count me as a new subscriber.

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks for the sub, I'm glad I could confirm that info for you.

[@barole]

Great video! Thanks for sharing your work. Interesting results

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks for watching!

[@MikeyGuzman]

You are so well spoken and it’s awesome!

[@thevinylattack]

That's very kind to say.

[@Azerrmon]

Excellent video, and presentation. I happen to own this particular anti-static device, so this was of particular interest and value to me. Thank you for taking the time to perform those tests, and assemble the results in very understandable and common sense manner. Beautifully done!

[@thevinylattack]

Glad it was helpful!

[@giuseppicommisso243]

Well done. Looking forward to the showdown between different devices

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks, that should be a fun video.

[@brianhandy100]

Nice work, very well thought-out testing. Thanks!

[@thevinylattack]

Glad you liked it!

[@DustyD0]

Very interesting results Chris! Particularly with the way the static dissipates to the bottom of the record when in contact with the platter mat. It would be interesting to see a test of different mat types someday (felt, rubber, leather, acrylic, ect.) To see if the manufacturer claims of some of those mats dissipating topside static better than others are true

[@thevinylattack]

I could probably look at some other mats. I'm pretty sure it'll all be relative, but it may be worth a test anyway.

[@douglasmeneilley7321]

Another variable is the humidity in your home; using a humidifier to obtain 40-50% humidity will also reduce static. Something we Canadians know all about from our cold dry winters!

[@jeffglotzer9346]

I have a thin, expensive carbon fiber mat and it is as bad as having it directly on the acrylic 2" platter. There are better materials, but I would think leather being some of the best- it is thickest, densest and most resistant to friction. I will not buy a leather mat most likely, but I am rather looking at another $400 mat from Italy that was recommended by Fremer.

[@ericharrelson32]

Great demo, nice work bro.

[@thevinylattack]

Much appreciated!

[@alexanderow1268]

Omg 😱, it’s a very detailed testing , and it’s an awesome tool !!!

[@thevinylattack]

I'm glad you liked it.

[@timsmitchell]

Great video! Thanks so much for explaining all of this, and doing the research! It really was fascinating!

[@thevinylattack]

I'm glad you liked it, Tim.

[@katiebunn]

Very interesting video. I came here from the Zerostat testing video as I was looking to maybe buy a Zerostat, and now you've got me questioning if I should shell out for this instead haha. The balance between budget and quality is always tricky here. On an unrelated note, I've seen few of your videos around now and am finally subscribing. I admire how thoroughly you test vinyl gear. Thanks for all you do!

[@thevinylattack]

Welcome aboard!

[@Daniel-hk3ru]

Science with entertainment makes this channel fun and a winner. Thank you for the information.

[@thevinylattack]

Glad you enjoy it. I can't do science all the time, but I like to when I'm able.

[@mattspokane]

Thank you so much for giving a more scientific evaluation rather than just spouting an unexplained opinion as many other youtubers do. 🙂

[@lowbudgetvinylchannel4840]

He's back in laboratory!!! Thanks for sharing your research with the VC.

[@thevinylattack]

I'm glad you liked it.

[@D3athW1ng]

Your no BS approach is much appreciated. 😂

[@thevinylattack]

I appreciate you saying so.

[@rwlodarczyk]

Love the video. You nailed it from a test rigor perspective. Baseline and repeatability are key.

[@thevinylattack]

I appreciate you saying so.

[@NessieBud]

yeah bro, quickly becoming my favorite record channel. KEEP IT UP!!

[@thevinylattack]

I appreciate it. I'm doing what I can...

[@Roamany-Jones]

Fantastic review of a product I thought of buying many years ago but was put off by the price and lack of evidence or thorough reviews. I will now be purchasing the Destat and look forward to many more of your great and informative videos. You should try Record cleaning brushes and cleaners next. 😁😉

[@thevinylattack]

@@Roamany-Jones Their on my list, I'm just working out what kind of methods to use.

[@elCaxi1971]

Same for me !

[@MrFrost77]

Awesome Video, keep it up!

[@thevinylattack]

Thank you, I'll do what I can.

[@anthonysaturno8265]

Sounds like I need some Jameson and the Destat :) Great video! I'm new to vinyl and didn't know about static. This is definitely added to my list! Thank you!

[@thevinylattack]

It's a bit pricey, but it's by far the most effective product I've come across for killing static.

[@TenaciousT32]

Another excellent video brother. Loved the Jameson reference. I’ve bought a few items while enjoys well! 😂

[@thevinylattack]

It seems to happen on occasion.

[@davidsaunders5959]

Another good and informative video ATTACK. I don’t know how many occasional record listening people would use this info but it’s awesome to know 👍👍👍👍👍. Plus love the Maiden shirt😁😁😁

[@thevinylattack]

Yeah, this one isn't for the average listener, that's for sure.

[@LanceB1960]

This review was a shining light into the KNIGHT of starter turntables (cheap contest entry). I really enjoy your videos, Chris. Your calm and very informative manner is a pleasure among a lot of the hype on KZbin.

[@thevinylattack]

It'd be a great contest entry, if only it were on the right video...

[@LanceB1960]

@@thevinylattack Yeah, pretty dumb of me...😄

[@davidroot298]

Hey Chris. Another great video. I was lucky and got an unused one for $125. I didn’t really know how to use it and because of that, never really did. Now I am going to use it every time. Thanks again for making these videos. I hope your channel explodes.

[@thevinylattack]

Hey, nice score on the cheap Destat. I'm glad this helped you out.

[@excessemail2344]

Great testing.

[@thevinylattack]

Thank you.

[@proaudiorestore8926]

Really love this channel and thank you for doing this, it really helps eliminates those “am I doing it right” questions you may have. I have been fighting static for ages, bought many “solutions” only to find im mostly just doing it wrong! I have one request. As somebody who has a love affair with spreadsheets, I would love to see these numbers thrown in something that I could use to extrapolate the info further. While points on the record matter, I would rather see and average number per 4 readings, you could then easily work out percentage changes between different methods. Thank you again for putting in the effort and creating some great content!

[@thevinylattack]

Unfortunately, I'm not a 'spreadsheet' kinda guy. Sorry.

[@joseluismantilla]

Great job!!!

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks, I appreciate it.

[@Texacate]

Thanks for demonstrating the entire test methodology and data. Even it's imperfect, it's an accurate representation of an average consumer's use case. I gave up on my Fluance branded carbon fiber brush after the bristles began breaking off, littering my records with dozens of tiny little fibers.

[@EnygmaRecords]

Fantastic video - I love how thorough you were with comparing methods and accounting for personal variables! I would be curious how effective this device is on records still in their jackets/sleeves. While a regular listener would likely want to do it on each record when they pull it out, I could see several potential scenarios one might try and use a device like this in such a manner: • Record stores may want to routinely "degauss" the shelves • DJs who spin vinyl before a gig or session • Lazy people (haha) I'm sure it would still have some kind of effect, and it also comes to mind that since static can build up in the sleeves we store our records, perhaps this is a good way to mitigate sleeve static from occurring. Keep up the great work, and I look forward to your next video!

[@thevinylattack]

I don't think it would be any benefit because the ionization wouldn't reach the record. I may give it a look all the same though, thanks for the feedback!

[@giovanniacanfora3781]

Another excellent video Salute

[@thevinylattack]

Much appreciated.

[@eekanif]

"Family Friends" : : nuthin but trouble! Love you so much!

[@thevinylattack]

I do try to be loveable.

[@vondeckbar72]

Yeah Chris, watch for Jameson and his boys! Great vid as always and I like the Maiden shirt🤜🤛

[@makistsobanou9451]

I accidentally discovered your channel and I really liked the way the topics were presented. As far as this product is concerned, I totally agree with you on how to use it. Yes the discharge must be done for better results with the record off the table. Zerostat must also be used in the same way as you have already mentioned in a previous presentation, off the table. I have both products as I also have the same static electricity meter. I have been using the Zerostat for over five years and I can say with certainty that it works very well. I have been using the Destat III for two years now and I can say that it has better results in the measurements, but also in practice. The difference between the two is not day and night, but it exists. The Destat III is also easier to use. Value for money? 400 euros is not a small amount but it definitely does an excellent job. It depends on everyone's wallet. I have also noticed the following. - When you take out a record from a high quality inner sleeve (MoFi, Nagaoka..etc) the static is much less than the paper inner sleeves. The measurements are around 4KV. On paper inner sleeves the initial measurements are around 10KV or maybe more. -The second thing I have noticed, is that 200 gram records accumulate more static than 180 (or less)gram records. Thank you for your excellent and detailed presentations. Keep going...Greetings from Greece.

[@thevinylattack]

Those are all astute observations that I've made myself. Thanks for dropping by and sharing. I'm glad you like the show.

[@npegg]

incredible video

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks, I appreciate the encouragement.

[@dannymcneal]

Wow! I learned so much!! I had just commented on your Milty Zerostat III test (thanks for your quick reply), but this series of tests with the Destat III actually made it all clear to me. Having said that, the Destat really needs to include marriage counseling papers, albeit I’m sure they would likely be biased toward winning the wife over. 😜 Thank you once again!

[@thevinylattack]

Glad it was helpful.

[@Rigs275]

Great video have the Destat II

[@thevinylattack]

How is that working for you? I'd love to check that out sometime just to see one.

[@Hodgegoulashi]

I'm just down the street from Music Direct myself. Always nice to save on shipping :) Thanks for the videos! I eagerly anticipate the HumminGuru review before just pulling the trigger on a Degritter. Cheers.

[@lewiswaddo5045]

I backed the Humminguru after seeing my friends home made ultrasonic setup. Can’t wait. Even if it does half the job of my pals cheap-o setup, it will be worth the purchase.

[@thevinylattack]

I'm looking forward to testing the HumminGuru myself.

[@joeellison5037]

Any chance you could test this after doing a wet cleaning using something like a Record Doctor or pro-ject vc-s, and compare it after cleaning with a carbon fiber brush?

[@bshah4831]

Great work on the real life testing for anti static elimination.

[@thevinylattack]

I'm glad you liked it.

[@xjjbx]

I own a 2nd hand zerostat from the 80s that I bought at an estate sale for 10 bucks almost 15 years ago. Gets the job done just fine. But I guess if you’re willing to spend thousands on a setup, the cost of this is nothing. However for the rest of us in rust belt reality, we’ll be sticking to our $9 anti static brush. Great channel, I subscribed back when you first started. I send newbies to your channel when they stop into my shop. You’ve put together some great references, information and opinions.

[@thevinylattack]

Believe me when I say it was tough for me to drop 300 bucks on an anti-static tool. I just made it a priority and saved up for a bit. It's also why I try to find alternatives for people. I appreciate your support and sticking with the channel!

[@DonaldLL825]

I actually laughed out loud... your family friend has also visited my house several times usually in the late evening and has had influence on my decisions as well. By the way thank you for your video... great job.

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks for watching.

[@Ricky-cl5bu]

Looks a great product

[@thevinylattack]

I use it every single time I play a record. Without fail.

[@TheAgeOfAnalog]

Yes! I've been looking for, waiting for, a good test of this product. I don't have a static measuring device, they're rather expensive too, but I've owned the ZeroStat 3 for years, and while it does work (when they don't fail after less than 2 years), I've always felt something has to be better. I've looked at the Destat III online for a while, but yes, $400 is a bit rich for my blood. I've always had some wicked static here in my house, for whatever reason, especially in the super dry Oklahoma winters. I try to run a humidifier at 40%, but even that only seems to help so much. I can tolerate a few clicks and pops on older, not so perfect records, but when you still get static noise from a new, well cleaned record, it can be very frustrating indeed. I may have to hold off on a few new record/gear purchases soon and go ahead and get one of these. Oh, BTW, the only test I'd be interested to see, might be one where you test the record, use the Destat III, then measure the levels on BOTH sides. Peace out brother.

[@thevinylattack]

Having had this for a while, I feel it was worth it for me. It's one of those things that everyone will have to decide for themselves because of that price though.

[@donaldchisholm9931]

Well done! That was very well thought out and performed . 300 to 400 $ is not that much if you have an extensive record collection. Some record cleaning machines are big $$. Love your channel , keep up the good work!

[@thevinylattack]

As with most things, the price will be relative to the collector. That said, I'm glad I have one of these.

[@nathanielnicholson559]

I almost dread the day you've put all speculations to rest, but I'm sure you'll still come up with worthy content. I feel it won't be long, you're a scientist and are well on the way! Once you do I'm interested to see what solutions and products you've come up with yourself, I feel it's inevitable ;) If you haven't already become aware, there IS a patent for a device in which someone was able to make magnetics have effect on static electricity. Yep. Bulky, likely expensive and, I'm guessing, not practical in our applications...yet. You should get on that hahaha. I love you videos. Looking forward to whatever you share!! Thanks, Chris!

[@nathanielnicholson559]

'your videos' That was bugging me lol

[@thevinylattack]

Well, I'll still have product reviews, record news and other items to go over. One thing at a time ;-)

[@peterbarnes8941]

I have a Walker Audio Talisman that I have recently purchased, used. The online instructions for the Talisman specify that the destat should take place before the record is put on the turntable. The instructions also specify that before placing the record on the turntable that you should destat both sides. It is further recommended that the final step should be a further destat of the side of the record that you wish to play with the record revolving on the turntable and a finger lightly touching the rim of the record to act as a ground. Thanks, again for your review, Peter Thanks for this thorough hands on testing.

[@thevinylattack]

If I get my hands on one of those I'll give that all a test as well. Seems like a lot of work just to listen to a record though.

[@richardhadderingh4546]

Okay, I have a National BH-653E Electronic Static Eliminator for years. After I learned how to make my own cleaning fluid made of (for 1 liter) 750 ml distilled water, 250 ml isopropyl and 5 ml Ilford Ilfotol wetting agent. Ilford Ilfotol wetting agent also has a strong anti static capabilities. After wet cleaning my records have hardly any static. The meter on the static eliminator shows no sign of static. I know that the meter is still good. Because every new record I buy I check it with the static eliminator. The meter then goes back and forth like crazy. After wet cleaning the new records are completely anti static for many years. And no, there’s no residu left behind on the records!

[@petermancini5323]

I bought this a few years back. It's worth every bit of what I paid for it. My records sound great. Today I brought it to work . Our stretch wrapper was winding up due to static. I used it on the rolls of stretch wrap. The stretch wrapper is working perfectly now.

[@thevinylattack]

I wouldn't be without it myself now that I've been using it for so long.

[@danender5555]

Right, but a different Balanced Ion Flow Generator would do the same job for significantly less money though.

[@jamesmccarthy6743]

I know this post is a little dated but I had to say I Love the content AND your Iron Maiden shirt. I saw Maiden’s Powerslave Tour in Atlanta in 1985 with Twisted Sister. Just w0w! Keep up the awesome work!

[@thevinylattack]

Hey, thanks!

[@arcorob]

The RT85 rocks! Take it from a guy who has owned over 30 TT's , from legacy to top line. It is now my sole table, I did switch out the Ortofon Blue (which surprisingly I liked) but went to my "go to" AT440ML which really brings it all to life. A bit more detail and soundstage. Glad to see others have caught on to this table that is mid-priced but I would put up against tables costing double. And though it is manual, love the autostop feature !!

[@thevinylattack]

It's a solid buy.

[@popsandclicks]

Another interesting tool, but way too expensive but it seems to do its job. Thanks for a great test!

[@thevinylattack]

Thank you!

[@swinedog712]

To me, static is an annoyance, but not a huge problem. Doubt if I would open my wallet for more than 100 bucks to solve my static issues. Great video. Thanks.

[@thevinylattack]

In the end, that's what really matters. What you think and what you're willing to pay. Thanks for watching.

[@audioaficionado9494]

Unless you're playing in cleanroom environments, static will attract more dust from the air and nearby surfaces. Less cleaning over the long term could amortize the $329 in saved time. As always, YMMV.

[@thisguy2755]

Still lovin your vids! A tip for a future video: a review of the Onzow Zero Dust? Yes it is very expensive for what it is.... But I'm lovin mine for about 10 years now, and it one of my absolute best turntable accessories ever. Horns up from the Netherlands!

[@jeremyr722]

Yeah, they are great!

[@thevinylattack]

It's on my list, but I need to get a good USB microscope first.

[@irashapiro9189]

Have someone record the data for you. That way the record never leaves your hand until the test is completed. This would eliminate a possible source of error. I don't see myself spending $329 for the device. I really enjoy your videos. Waiting for the T-shirt with your logo on it to become available. Keep up the good work.

[@thevinylattack]

Unfortunately I'm a solo operation. However, I've tested (and shown in the lighter video) that placing the record on the table occasionally doesn't affect the numbers. Maybe one day I can get an assistant and run it again though. Shirts are in the "testing" process too as I try different brands to see which make me happy enough to sell.

[@EclecticMusicMan]

Excellent testing, you always review things really well. One thing I would like to know though is what would happen if you played the record and tested it before just flipping it to side 2? Does playing the record induce more static? Meaning you would have to use the devise again before flaying the other side.

[@thevinylattack]

In my experience, one play of the record doesn't really introduce anything. I may put it in a video though.

[@peterstachura8595]

Wow!!! That’s pretty incredible!! I live in Chicago and my company isn’t very far from Music Direct plus I also used to live by it. Their warehouse is amazing!!!

[@thevinylattack]

I haven't been in person yet, but I'm planning on it sooner than later.

[@hashman3171]

Great video as well as the shirt!! Was wondering if record density made a difference or maybe a different mat ,felt verses cork or the vinyl mat would make static more intense?

[@thevinylattack]

The type of mat can indeed make a difference and I think it's easier to remove static from a thinner record, but it's kind of hard to test since every record has a different level of static to begin with.

[@lewiswaddo5045]

Great review, and worth the price on high end setups. Might have to grab one when my ultrasonic cleaner arrives. I hear they make records more susceptible to static.

[@thevinylattack]

An ultrasonic is a wet clean and won't introduce static at all. The Destat is still a good tool to have around if you can justify the cost.

[@lewiswaddo5045]

@@thevinylattack after the record is clean, any oils and foreign materials that helped discharge the static are gone. The most static albums I have are my new, clean vinyl. I guess the ultrasonic cleaning gets it ‘new’ again and more able to hold a static charge. My assumption, mixed with what I’ve seen after cleaning. I’ve had no way of measuring, and didn’t know the humidity of the room when comparing.

[@thevinylattack]

@@lewiswaddo5045 New vinyl isn't all that clean anyway and they come out of the sleeve loaded with static most of the time.

[@jeffnelson6904]

Great video and great tests! I just don't know if that Destat is worth the nearly $400 price tag. Awesome results on well it works...look forward to the device showdown but I have a feeling this new device will win. Always enjoy the videos, Chris! I wonder if using different mats on the turntable will have an effect on static as well?

[@thevinylattack]

Different mats do indeed have an effect on static.

[@audioaficionado9494]

Might be worth the money if you have static issues, but it all adds up. TT, preamp, wet cleaning equipment, etc. My vinyl collection is under 50, so maybe later as a system upgrade. Awesome channel. Succinct and entertaining.

[@thevinylattack]

I'm glad you like it.

[@jeffglotzer9346]

The anti-static strap tied to your ankle was sooo funny. We are absolutely insane, and yet justifiably hateful of static electricity. Only the DS Audio unit is truly efficacious. I've owned this unit and I like it a lot better than the Zerostat. Acrylic turntable platters quadruple the static charge with every record play and I am living in pure hell. The DStat 3 reminds me there is hope.

[@dalecanham6906]

I have a Milty Zerostat and an acrylic platter. I've been on the fence about buying the Destat , but after reading your post , anyone who can use "efficacious" correctly in a sentence leads me to believe that there are maybe still some intelligent peop[e out here ! I'm ordering one now because I never know if the milty is working or not. Sometimes it clicks , sometimes it doesn't.

[@kurtw491]

I bought mine way back when it went on sale, too. Was tired of the short lifespans of the Zerostats and started investigating. I have 3 dead Zerostats sitting including an original red one I hunted down. They lasted barely a year each at a $100 plus a pop. So the Destat III is a bargain when looked at over a period of time. It is still working very well. My TT is a SL1200 MK3 with an original made in Sweden Discwasher carbon fiber mat from the late 70's on top of the standard rubber mat. I use the DS III every time I drop the needle with the vinyl playing at the very beginning. Even if I do not take it off before replaying. Only during the driest time in the winter has the carbon fiber mat ever come up stuck to the bottom of the record when taking it off the TT. Maybe once every 20 times or so. The second or third time I used my DS III my cart actually popped and discharged its built up static from the beginning of its life. No noticeable negative effects on the TT or nearby electronics including my preamp / ADC and computer that I record with which is right next to the TT. Over a least two years or more of use. I do understand how the static is moved from one side to the other but with the carbon fiber mat for a dielectric in between the vinyl and the TT I have no idea where the static is transferred to. I just assumed that it was dissipated and gone. I used it on other devices for the purpose of degaussing them. Finally, I took it to the drier to see what it would do to a dryer full of dress shirts freshly dried. Reaching into the drier there was the expected hair raising static cling of all the shirts sticking together. Got the DS III and gave the drier a blast and all the static on the shirts was gone and even wrinkles relaxed. This is one powerful puppy to do that. Thanks for the informative video which reassures me that I have been on the right track with my due diligence in attacking static. If I have to buy a new one every three years, it is still worth it. I hope it lasts a very long time and expect it to.

[@thevinylattack]

While a bit pricey, I still say it's worth every penny. Your experience adds to that.

[@attilapataki8030]

Thanks for the detailed analysis! I've just recently come across this issue. I ordered a vinyl on Discogs and I can sense the elektrostatic field around the record even with my hand. When being played back you can hear loud crackles. But before I buy this gadget I'll make a try with my wife's Braun Satin Hair 7 hairdryer. It uses IONTEC technology which theoreically does the same as Destat III and the hairdryer can be operated in cold mode, too. But first of all I need a measuring instrument.

[@thevinylattack]

I tried an ion-generating hair dryer (there's a video somewhere in my playlist) and, unfortunately, it did nothing.

[@strozombie]

just found your video's so this question may have already been answered but one test I would have liked to see is get the static numbers, use the destat on side a then on side b, then get the static numbers to compare one side vs both sides. regardless, awesome vids. thanks.

[@thevinylattack]

I thought about it, but as we only play one side at a time I wasn't as concerned. It may happen down the line, however.

[@bassmasteraek]

Great video!! Could you test the amount of static before and after you put the record into different sleeves (paper vs mofi)?

[@thevinylattack]

It's something I'm looking at, but trickier than you'd think to set up test parameters.

[@dusterdriven]

CORK. That's an awesomely beautiful mat dude!! I've always loved cork mats. Lately I've been using a crosley c6 with a LP gear elliptical upgrade! It has a rubber mat currently but it still rings line a dinner bell. My Denon has my cork may with the grado prestige black. But yeah CORK CORK CORK

[@thevinylattack]

You're at the wrong video bud. The raffle generator won't read your entry on this video.

[@dusterdriven]

@@thevinylattack My bad, I blame my TV I'm using for KZbin. Sorry.

[@thevinylattack]

@@dusterdriven No worries.

[@ovethompson9611]

Good video. I’m looking for ward to checking out your other stuff.

[@thevinylattack]

Welcome aboard!

[@S.A.S.H.]

Great idea on the ground strap. I wonder if wrist that;'s holding the record versus ankle makes a different.

[@ReelyboredJon]

Another great video! Would love to own this (maybe one day) but too much to rod static. I may have missed it, but what tool are you using to measure the static in the records?

[@thevinylattack]

It's a Simco static electricity meter.

[@tgorsuch1]

Great review. I'm fortunate that I bought both my Disc Washer and Zerostat in the late 70's/early 80's so I will be able to keep those funds in my pocket. One question - where are you placing the LP (off camera) between your measurements? Is that introducing any variability?

[@thevinylattack]

I set it on my little ikea table, but I've tested that both on and off camera and it doesn't have any effect on the numbers.

[@dmagoon8291]

Great video! From all my research I've read the Walker Audio Talisman is the best anti static tool for records which can also be used for speakers, cables etc. Would love to see a comparison with it. It is also in the same price range. Lastly it is a bit painful to see you grab some of those records with your fingers on the grooves lol

[@thevinylattack]

I can't imagine how a brush would perform better, but if the channel is ever in a spot that it can afford one of those I'll definitely test it.

[@TheAgeOfAnalog]

They're dollar bin "junk" records, he's addressed this in other videos.

[@dmagoon8291]

@@thevinylattack it's not a brush, it's a magnetic optimizer. I assume it works similar to destat. You also wave it around in circles above the record. I first saw it on the Ana(dia)log channel. It would be interesting to see how it works with the great tests you used in this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5CnfJ6iobmqr9U

[@thevinylattack]

@@dmagoon8291 I'll put it in the consideration column.

[@JohnCran]

As a woodworker I'm very familiar with the elimination of static in my dust collection system and the way to do it is simply to ground the pipes. So to my mind if you're turntable is properly grounded and your platter mat is conductive then static should be basically gone down the ground and any static will be generated from removing the record. Just my logic and experience. Great video as always 👍

[@thevinylattack]

It does go down some pipe or another, the question is how bad is that for very sensitive electronics. I think it's better to not introduce any static at all if possible. Your dust collector is a bit more robust than my turntable ;-)

[@darrylbrueckner2812]

Great video! I love fussing with my record collection and all of 'the work' associated with it. But I hated using the milty zerostat. Total pain in the ass and lack luster results. The Destat by comparison is a joy to use and works amazing. I live in Central Canada and our winters are super dry. Static city. That plus my forced air furnace circulating dog hair all over the house and sticking to my records was especially demoralizing. Not a problem anymore. Now about that price.....

[@thevinylattack]

Yeah, it's a pricey bit of kit.

[@DetroitStars]

Very informative, well done! I'd be interested to see how room humidity affects the test numbers. Static seems to be worse in the winter when humidity is low, and perhaps testing under various humidities would show how much worse. Also, I'd be interested to see how much, if any, additional static is generated on the record after cleaning with a Discwasher.

[@leon9021]

Static can easily build up after cleaning. If you dry with a cloth that does it pretty much right away.

[@DetroitStars]

​@@leon9021 Yes, but I'm wondering about static build up on the record when you dry clean it using a device like the original Discwasher or one of its newer, but inferior, look-a-likes now available.

[@leon9021]

@@DetroitStars That also builds static. Any frictional contact between materials does pretty much.

[@thevinylattack]

The numbers would definitely be a bit higher is a dry environment, but it's all relative at that point. The static numbers change so much from record to record, there's no good way to get a baseline.

[@jfm0830]

Great video! Thank you. I bought my Destat III after seeing this video. I was curious what your thoughts are on using a carbon fiber brush like the Audio Quest Gold and where and how in the sequence you would use it. I have an Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine and I rarely have to use a carbon fiber brush. Today I pulled a record I had cleaned a week ago and just got around to playing today. It was stored in a MoFi inner sleeve but for some reason it had some dust on it. I usually use the carbon fiber brush with the record turning on the platter. Do you have a sense of what would produce less static: Use the Destat III with the record handheld and then hit it with the brush on the TT? It occurred to me this could add more static. Or brush it first with the carbon fiber brush on the TT and pull it off and hit it with the Destat III? this is an awkward work flow. A third choice is using the Audio Quest Gold carbon fiber brush with the record handheld. This is not the way this brush was designed to be used. Thanks in advance for sharing any thoughts you might have on this topic.

[@thevinylattack]

I've found the best method for me to be to treat the record in hand and use the brush on the table thereafter. The brush isn't going to add any static and it wipes away easily because the static is now gone.

[@jfm0830]

@@thevinylattack That is what I figured too, but the Destat III gets the charge so ridiculously low it was not inconceivable to me that the carbon fiber brush could actually add a small charge. Add the Destat III in to my playback chain of a UCM, a Tru-Sweep record sweeping arm and a Sweet Vinyl Sugar Cube click and pop remover and my vinyl listening is pretty much as noise free as digital. I never would have believed it. Thanks for your help in this quest.

[@Mike_Jones68]

@@jfm0830 i have been really digging into a bunch of research to upgrading my vinyl process...i still clean by hand using Disc Dr products, tho looking at a Project vc unit, new Mofi sleeves, etc..then using carbon brush b4 playing...but would you suggest looking at this first? I do notice the static still present after cleaning and playing that id like to get rid of. But budget considerate, would you suggest buy this 1st vs a cleaning machine?

[@jfm0830]

@@Mike_Jones68 That could depend on several things. Do you mostly buy new or used records? Is your environment dry which would contribute more to static being a problem? I think a good carbon fiber brush is the first thing to get for any turntable. Then if you mostly buy new records you could possibly hold off on the record cleaner. Perhaps get something like a Spin Clean for now for $100 or so. If you buy mostly used records then you must re-evaluate your situation. Depending on the condition, they will benefit more from a good cleaning than using something like the Destat IMHO. I would also suggest using MoFi or similar non-static inner sleeves right away on any records you are going to play that need them. Paper inners can get paper shavings on the disc and taking the LPs in and out of regular sleeves can contribute to static charge. A wet cleaning contributes towards removing some or all of the static charge on the records. This is why I suggested MoFi inners on the sooner side, so your paper inner sleeves don't just put a static charge on the records when you clean them and put them away. If you buy mostly used records the cleaning machine becomes more of a priority. Once again you could get a Spin Clean or something similar to hold you until you can afford more. I would still say CF brush, non-static inners, a record cleaner and then the Destat. Don't get me wrong it is a great product, but some of the other devices have you covered for some of the effects of static. I HATE ticks and pops of any kind which is why I still bought the Destat despite having an ultrasonic cleaning machine. If you have a lot of records that need cleaning I would prioritize getting the Project VC on the sooner size. It will deal with a lot of static issues. The only case where I would move the Destat higher on the priority list is where you have a really dry dusty environment where you may need to hit the LP with the Destat followed by the carbon fiber brush for every play. My 2 cents. Good luck!

[@ericodijk]

It's said that actually playing the record reintroduces static. That said, I think that the most important thing is how static your record is while on the turntable and while being played. Don't really care that much about holding a record up and then seeing how static it is. For you showed that static is reintroduced then. It doesn't play in your hand, only on the table. Very very thorough testing, hats off!

[@thevinylattack]

It goes directly from your hand to your table...

[@wiiver]

First? First. Nice vid bud. Always glad to spend some time with ya.

[@thevinylattack]

I appreciate you dropping by.

[@dajmasta94]

I’d love for you to use this to find out if the anti-static brushes used before playing a record add anything or not. You might even be able to figure out the best way to use those damn things. I’ve seen lots of different approaches and have occasionally felt I made it much worse after using it because the record picked up my mat! Only once in a while does that happen though, but still what gives?

[@thevinylattack]

I'm working out how best to test that, hopefully sooner than later.

[@EBPization]

I really learned a lot from this video! Wondering if you know of static levels after washing/ultrasonic cleaning of records. Thanks!

[@thevinylattack]

A wet clean eliminates pretty much all static, but I should probably put it on video. Thanks for the suggestion!

[@tonymontana897]

Hi Chris, I love your videos. Very informative. Can you link those products you use please ?

[@thevinylattack]

The Destat I bought at Music Direct.

[@Engraving-ld8gn]

Outstanding video as usual, Chris. One thought, if we incorporate, and by we I mean you 😂, incorporate a cleaner into the mix, would that make a difference? I’m thinking during the electronic cleaning process of the Degritter, or the Hummingbird, static would increase. Wondering how this tool could be used to decrease the static electricity there. What if the manual cleaner is used, such as the Big Fudge or the Spin-Clean. Keep killing the videos. 👍

[@thevinylattack]

I clean every record I have when I first get it, and then periodically over time. I also treat every record for static before play.

[@Engraving-ld8gn]

@@thevinylattack Yes sir, same here. Upgraded from a spin clean to a Degritter and have loved it!

[@thevinylattack]

@@Engraving-ld8gn I wouldn't be without mine.

[@705johnnyboy]

ive watch your videos for ages i didnt realize i hadn't subscribed lol...

[@thevinylattack]

Well I'm glad you finally did :-)

[@andrewruiz5123]

Awesome content! How about treat the record then play and then retest?

[@thevinylattack]

That seems to be a common request, so I'll be taking a look at that.

[@tonyharrison2542]

Nicely Don Chris. It clearly appears that the Destat III is best. However, at that cost, I'll continue to happily use my Zerostat.

[@thevinylattack]

I hear you. I don't know if I'd have bought it if I didn't have this channel and wanted to get out some quality content.

[@tonyharrison2542]

Oh, I can appreciate your reason for making the purchase. In your position, with the channel, I would have surely done the same. It aides your followers and promotes knowledge on the subject and I'm frankly glad you did.

[@thevinylattack]

@@tonyharrison2542 I'm glad too, it was a fun test.

[@michaelbliss3337]

Thanks for another great video on this. I think when you test head-to-head, you can get the static down to near 0 with the lighter method by doing it 3 times over the record. i.e. I suspect you can get the same results as the destat iii if you spend a bit more time with that method.

[@thevinylattack]

I might actually do 4 as I know the Milty is effective at that number. I'm still working out what a fair fight would be.

[@michaelbliss3337]

@@thevinylattack while I've got your attention I want to say - AWESOME job at this channel so far, I don't know if you're experienced in broadcasting you seem like you might be a teacher or something, but you're doing a great job at being intelligble and interesting and even funny...you're making it look easy, though I know it isn't! What I would *love* to see, is at least one test to see if the lighter (and/or the Mitty) will eventually get the static down to ~0..and how many times / how long it takes... I suspect the lighter will eventually get there, but it might take like 5 minutes, vs 30 seconds with your fancy destat iii ... Just a wish / suggestion.

[@thevinylattack]

@@michaelbliss3337 I might try to test that off camera to see if it actually works first so I don't have to edit an hour long video with no payoff. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@michaelbliss3337]

@@thevinylattack solid plan thanks for taking it into account! I know it'll work, I happen to have an overgrown fern next to my turntable, it tells me when records have static and when they don't pretty well!

[@joet_swbo101]

Great explanation on why to test in your hand opposed to on the turntable. Makes perfect sense. Will I buy this, not for that price. I can buy another turntable or a really nice cartridge. Wet cleaning with some type of D4 liquid, on both sides, should break it up as well. Now if someone gave me one, I wouldn't complain. 😉

[@thevinylattack]

I hear you, it wasn't something I planned on buying but it worked out well for the channel.

[@williamdenton5716]

First, I appreciate your diligence and over the years, (has it really been that long?) I feel like you have truly earned my trust. The question : When spinning the record, are you able to hear an improvement ? Thanks again, Bungeebill Hood Rat Records 🎩 ✌️🐀💿

[@thevinylattack]

If you're asking if I hear a sonic improvement in playback after I treat the record for static with the Destast, the answer is yes. This will be dependent on the amount of static that was on the record in the first place, but I don't play a record these days without treating it with the Destat first.

[@mitchreynolds7867]

Interesting results, cudos for your efforts, my query relates to record weight and static, would a 180-200 gram vinyl hood more static than a 120-150 gram vinyl from the difference in mass alone?

[@thevinylattack]

I don't think the difference (if any) would be enough to make any difference in the way you would want to treat a record for static, but I don't have actual numbers on hand.

[@ericelliott227]

Hi Chris, You are very well spoken. It seems this outlet is a good fit. I also like your approach of paying attention to detail.\ I use a Miltypro 3 my self and find it works well. The Destat 3 is interesting, but the claims are just too much of the same thing I see about every audio product around. I have never tried the Destat and I feel I correctly assume that it works well. Yes, I agree with you about prices, it get's to be Ludacris fast. Anyway, for those of your audience with more modest means (myself included no doubt) I have a possible fourth contender for your upcoming battle royal: I also use a Thunderon brush for static elimination. I was skeptical, but those reasonably priced Thunderon type brushes actually work very well. I just hold the record and brush one stroke with the grooves one half and one stroke the other half on one side and 97% of the time the static is gone. So you may want to consider a four way fight?

[@thevinylattack]

I'll certainly take a look at it. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@ericelliott227]

@@thevinylattack Of course, your welcome. I was in the industry as a journalist myself from 2012 through 2017 (writing, I'm no good in front of a camera). I'm thinking about jumping back in perhaps in a few months, but with a slightly different approach concentrating more on advice now that I have a few notches on my belt. I also restore vinyl records as a hobby, (studied for two years academically for that and still learning something here and there. You never stop learning actually).

[@rickmilam413]

I just ordered one based on your results. Have the gun but....Nicely done. I use a table with a felt mat and sometimes there's so much static the records lifts the mat with it so I was surprised at how low it was on your table. Are tables different in that regard? Could it be related to their grounding scheme? Mine has a ceramic platter and no idea how that does or doesn't contribute. Thanks.

[@thevinylattack]

Generally speaking, turntables ground the same so I don't think it really has to do with that. The platter mat, environment, and condition of the record are the main factors. The Destat is by far the best product I've used for static elimination. Just use it as directed and with the record in hand, NOT on the turntable.

[@rickmilam413]

@@thevinylattack True, but a couple of thoughts. One is the obvious difference in different mat constructions. With your seeming insulative rubber mat I was surprised that it seemed to have grounded itself to the table. Secondly a notable exception is Rega, a long standing popular make of table that uses no conventional grounding. There is no ground lug, no obvious chassis ground at all. Rarely is it a problem but as a dealer I have seen it become one.

[@rickmilam413]

@@thevinylattack Thanks for the review. The Destat works great. Also have a new turntable with a 45lb bronze platter so no more ceramic (Micro Seiki RX-5000 from 1984). Just received the DS Audio piece that sits beside your table and is designed to neutralize the static as it develops on the record. Obscenely expensive but no firm impressions yet.

[@abba96]

Thank's for the video! Would be nice to know the name/model of the device used to measure static 😀

[@zeekbruno4869]

Hi Chris Great Video! Can you tell us what you’re using to Measure static? Those of us who are worried about static when handling sensitive semiconductors we wear our wrist straps on our wrist not ankles. Closest to Our work. I use the Desat II and it works like you demonstrate here. I also notice that your storing you albums in the paper sleeves they come in. Can I recommend moving to Zero static sleeves treated sleeves

[@attilapataki8030]

Hi, by google image search it must be a SIMCO FMX-002

[@robhaynes4410]

Looking forward to the shootout! Is that still in the cards?

[@thevinylattack]

It is, but I've had to put it on hold due to some more time sensitive videos.