(Updated info)! Cleanervinyl.com's Inexpensive Cavitation-based Record Cleaning System

Watch analogplanet.com editor Michael Fremer try cleanervinyl.com's cavitation based record cleaning system using an "off-the-self" cavitation vat and cleaner vinyl.com's One or Pro system plus optional Dry attachment. The One cleans either one or two records at a time, which is just okay. For a little more money you can clean a dozen records at a time and then dry them. The entire process takes around an hour (unattended for most of that time) and costs a bit more than $600, or around the same as a vacuum cleaning machine that's not nearly as thorough. You need to start with a PS-30A ultrasonic bath, which you buy on Ebay, or for $169 as part of a package assembled by www.cleanervinyl.com. The prices are: $189 for the single record cleaner system, $389 for the up to twelve records system (recommended) plus the optional Dry fan system $129. So the cost complete including the PS-30A Ultrasonic cleaner and 12 LP cleaning system is $687-about the same price as a well-featured vacuum based machine. Go to cleanervinyl.com for more information and/or to order. NOTE: My friend who shot the video and whose records we cleaned brought a few back. We played them, then cleaned again on the Audio Desk and played again. The background quiet was greatly improved, with after the Audio Desk cleaning and there were fewer pops and clicks, some of which we thought were from scratches in the record but were not. On the plus side for the Cleanervinyl system: the stylus didn't pick up any dirt upon the first play, which means the Cleanervinyl system does a relatively good job of cleaning. It just doesn't go as "deep" as the Audio Desk. Cleaner vinyl responded saying a second cleaning with his system would produce similar results but it wasn't possible to test that.

[@philipcarruthers872]

Just thought I would add my two cents worth. I work on Ultrasonic Cleaning baths for a living, we sell them to Laboratories and Hospitals to clean their devices especially Cannulated equipment. His explanation of how it works is not quite correct. On the base of the bath are Piezo Ultrasonic Disks that send Ultrasonic waves through the water in the bath. This causes thousands of tiny bubbles in the water called Cavitation. When the bubbles touch the device you are cleaning the bubbles pop/burst. When the bubbles burst they impart a small amount of energy that hits the surface of the device and it is this energy that cleans off the dirt from whatever you are cleaning. So it would be a good way of getting into the Microgroove of the record and clean out all the dust and grime init. I have an Ultrasonic Bath and will make my own Motor setup to rotate the record for far less than can be purchased and that will be my goto cleaning machine for my records.

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

$4000 and it's louder than my grandfather's old rusty windmill

Dear Sir, I got into vinyl because of you. I deeply respect you and your quest to value vinyl over other formats. So now my vinyl cleaning Issue is resolved. Thanks for a honest and clear demonstration. Respect from Finland.

[@mannye]

"sometimes you have to push it down to get it started which is fine" No.... no it's not. For $3500 to $4000.... no it's not fine at all.

[@josevreis]

It’s surreal 😂

[@bricktop2603]

And way too noisy for tha money

[@rwoodford9812]

Michael, another excellent video, your record and record cleaning videos are very helpful to say the least. I am in the process of creating my own version of what you have covered so far. Totally agree with you on the importance of clean records, and the care of them. Keep up the excellent work! Thanks...

[@stephencastro1437]

Michael, I just purchased the very same ultrasonic machine, brand new, for a total ofr $43.69 on ebay. I have a motor assembly and fabricated the spindle myself, can produce the exact same machine, all parts for: $59.00! Seriously. This does not include the drying attachment. But I do have one of those computer fans here. So.......Just an FYI for others.

[@someoneoutthere7512]

I was thinking the other day that maybe I could use an ultrasonic bath to clean records and here I see your video! Great job, Thanks!

[@BarakaPDub]

Thanks for the video and thanks to the wife for helping to film it? I had a very similar idea after seeing the same vats on eBay for $125. The only modest change I would make would be to the fan, it really needs to have a filter at the inlet to mitigate some of the air borne particles from blowing right back onto the surface of the record. Not that you can eliminate all of the dust but it should help some.

[@kenmicallefjazzvinylaudiop6455]

Are there any commercial, small fans that come with the filter you describe?

[@SpaghettiKillah]

Great original Tron T-Shirt Mike👍🏻 thx for the video. I love your system...those Wilson Audio and the DartZeel monoblocks look amazing.

[@DavidDarrow]

I'm impressed that after having used the Audio Desk cleaner for so long, that you're able to go through this entire process, and still talk positively about it. Not trying to sound elitist, just being sincere. I too have the Audio Desk, and I feel that I can honestly say that if I had to go through all the steps, and time for "reasonably" priced ultrasonic vinyl cleaning, I would say "screw it", and just stick with vacuum cleaning. Kudos!

[@astolatpere11]

Im going to eat my words on a previous comment. I bought a Vevor lp cleaning cavitation machine for $161 delivered. I use my 30 year old Nittygritty 1.5 vacuum machine to dry. Works a treat. I have thousands of lps that range from 70 years old to new. I've cleaned a couple of hundred lps and they all sound better, really better.

[@djmixin1]

I love the sign off lol "it's a cool thing!" but really, this is better and less money than the VPI which was the direction I was going. Thank you.

[@claudec2588]

Spin Clean is under a hundred dollars and I can listen to music while I manually clean my records. When I win the lottery I will consider purchasing a cavitation based cleaning system. But I do appreciate this review. Thanks.

[@estebannemo1957]

Thank you, Michael!

[@roscoejones4515]

Staying ahead of the fashion curve by tucking in your t-shirt. Looking good Mikey!

[@stereopolice]

You lost me at $4,500.00; some of we peasants refer to that as "motor vehicle".

[@erico888]

some of us refer to that as 'all we have in the bank'

[@Victor-wn8hf]

He reviews several more methods that are much more affordable, in the same video.

[@bumerangsydney]

Well said.

[@andreass2301]

@@Victor-wn8hf Even the 'affordable' is a little expensive.

[@Victor-wn8hf]

@@andreass2301 Yeah but some people have 1000s of records worth tens of thousands of dollars so for them it's worth it.

[@milescorporosus4058]

Funny how many people are ragging on the guy and his $4500 machine when the entire second half of the video is a demonstration of a less expensive alternative that he says works just as well. Isn't that exactly what product comparisons are for?

[@mannye]

Yeah but don't make excuses for the ridiculously overpriced and under-engineered "solution" as well. He's a very knowledgeable expert in all things vinyl and his honest comparison of the new SL1200 with his $150,000 Continuum was brilliant, but he sometimes indulges the crazy people a little too much. Meh... I still like him though.

[@chrismon1001]

Is it Class A or A/B or D? I only like records cleaned in Class A...

[@Derfunkmeister]

Got the Audio Desk System and it works fine. Hey Michael, would give half a leg to be able to hear those legendary speakers U got. Do they go deep in the low end? Keep up the good work as it's always a joy to see and hear your opinion.

[@rballister]

Is there much use for the RPM adjustable speed accessory Cleanervinyl sells? What is the benefit?

[@isawlindsey]

Always enjoy your videos Michael. That four thousand dollar machine makes a lot of noise!

[@aparneomai]

Yes sonicators can be extremely annoying. We use them in the lab when cleaning mass spectrometer parts. Typically after cleaning metal parts with aluminum oxide we sonicate the parts initially in submicron filtered HPLC grade water for several minutes then sonicate in an organic solvent like acetone and finally sonicate again in methanol or hexanes to facilitate the drying process. With records the solvents used will likely affect the stability of the vinyl itself for alcohols can dissolve esters which is why people suggest not using alcohol in cleaning solutions for plasticizers are typically esters but regardless plasticizers are organic compounds that can and will dissolve in organic solvents but then again so is vinyl itself.

[@seeaclip]

Thanks for making this video, very helpful for future decision making.

[@Albee213]

I can clean my records with a spin clean type contraption and listen to music at the same time. It also only takes a minute or so for each record by hand.

[@krisprojection2433]

Am looking for a good cleaning machine, Had spin clean but never liked it. I use reviriginizer which works but take so long. Nice video and that is one awesome setup you have there!

[@tommyparks387]

I guess I should have asked you before I purchased the CleanerVinyl machine but, did you ever decide which one to use to clean your records? When ever you have a chance, thanks

[@estherp4867]

I'm hoping there will eventually be a

[@richardmorgan1588]

Classic VPI vacuum record cleaning machine and Groove Washer system. Less than $600 invested, less time, less trouble, great results!

[@TheThodi]

Thank you for your review! One big question: How does it sound after being cleaned when compared to the 4000$ dollar machine? Is it equally good?

[@TheThodi]

Analog Planet can't wait for it! thank you! :)

[@hiddenagenda5330]

How to protect the labels? I have a lot of white labels with pen infos written on, the water would smudge this.

[@tomgray6093]

12:32 This cleaner is similar to mine but my one only cleans three at a time maximum. I also run the records through a vacuum machine after I rinse them with distilled water. It’s a bit involved but I don’t mind spending the time on getting a good end result. I usually have to psych myself up for a cleaning session. I spend a few hours cleaning once I’m in the zone.

[@haledragon1]

I know what I'm not buying to clean my LP records, LOL !thank you, cool machines.

[@petehatzakos]

Cavitation is the way to clean vinyl... Who knew? I didn't... Thanks Michael!

[@PedroPedro-jm4lk]

Do the labels become wet on the DIY ultrasonic machine system?

[@thegrimyeaper]

It beeps when it's done. It also beeps when it starts, cleans and dries.

[@hhli1]

Thank you for the demon, great help pn my decision on getting one of these

[@markfrancos9561]

This is where likes of the Humminguru comes into its own!

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

$5 paint pad, $5 car dent puller (label protector) $2 dish liquid, $2 dish rinse aid, $3 bottle of deionised distilled water, 2 $1 spray bottles. $4 bag of good microfiber cloths. Not much effort required, quick easy no messing around with big bulky noisy machines that you have to attach hoses to and drain etc. If anyone can hear a difference between my hand cleaned record and one cleaned by these expensive machines they have super super hearing.

[@eddiel70]

I can't base my experience on the records you have bought but I can base them on the records I have bought. No way did a manual clean ever get my records as clean as a vacuum based record cleaning machine. Do they sound better? Yes they do because there's less noise. A new record with no use might not benefit but records that are 30, 40, 50, 60+ years old do, in my experience. Honestly, if I had to rely on a manual clean alone I'd not bother with records and would go back to 100% digital quite quickly.

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

I also have records 60s 70s in fact most of my collection is from that period (the best period for music by far in my opinion) but I usually only buy stuff that's still in VG or better condition, I don't buy stuff that I know I can't clean by hand and get it playing quiet. It's funny how you said you'd go back to vinyl if you had to clean manually because I'd stop buying vinyl if I had to use a bulky machine. I suppose we're all different.

[@harrievangeffen]

Crazy prayingmantis I'm with you. In the past I cleaned some of my lp's by hand. Then I bought a simple cleaning device (Knosti) and later a more sophisticated one (Okki Nokki). But even though I'm very picky on sound quality none of the machines gave me the impression that they did a better job than manual cleaning. And to be honest: I also only buy records that look like they've had a good life and I can't say that I've ever owned an lp that sounded REALLY better after cleaning....

[@Victor-wn8hf]

I wouldnt call that method quick and easy. Do you really know if dish soap is 100 percent safe for your records and needle?

[@mondoenterprises6710]

I'm with you. I bought the label protector for $20. And away I go for peanuts.

[@paulpeeters2356]

Micheal, I dry the records with a Kärcher window vac. works perfectly, removes the fluid including remaining dirt!

[@paulpeeters2356]

Cleaning i do with a €49 Disco Antistat, cleaning fluid by the Vinyl Archive in Nijmegen, The Netherlands. The composition is generally available on the internet

[@johnholmes912]

@@paulpeeters2356 i tried the disco antistat, it just spreads the muck all over the record

[@ColocasiaCorm]

Audiophile: the highs in this cavitation machine sound etched and strident

[@derosa1989]

how about playing a dirty record before and after so we can hear if the clean record has less surface noise.

[@commonsense6630]

derosa1989 It has to, if it was actually dirty enough?

[@Victor-wn8hf]

Because playing a very dirty record could damage his needle and the record itself. If you say fine, then use a cheap record player, then the recording wont be as good and you wouldnt not be able notice the difference as much. A better test would be to listen to a record cleaned by another method. Then he would have to have done recordings for every method and for many dirty records. Since all of the records would have different amounts of dirt, you wouldnt really be able to know for sure if the method was better or id the record was not that dirty in the first place.

[@dman8369]

Please use a 60x to80x power jewel loop for before and after views .They cost less than 20 bucks.

[@ToxicaLBraiN]

400$ for 3D printed parts from a normal Printer and a motor?!? I‘ll print my own for 1,99

[@Victor-wn8hf]

How did yours work out? How long did it take to make all of the models? How much did your 3D printer cost? Will you sell me one? Since you said it would cost 2 dollars would you accept $20? That would cover shipping.

[@mannye]

@@Victor-wn8hf He's right that $400 is too much. Why you mad, bro?

[@John-if8sx]

So mike there is defiantly no water on the labels??? I assume not since your giving it your nod of approval. Loving my New VPI Prime.

[@yhchea4531]

Nice Mr Fremer sits his RCMs on a Symposium Ultra :-)...

[@2112KidGloves]

Great video and product!!!!! Oh and amazing shirt!!!!!

[@ImranShamsul]

nice way to blow dust back on the record! would probably partner well with a KAB EV-1 if you're on a budget!

[@sebastianspatafore5117]

yes I agree with the KAB, it would be great use the vacuum of the KAB to dry, never use just cloth towels ;)

[@beosliege]

I would prefer to wait and save up for a loricraft (not ultrasonic but good), or an audiodeske glass, as the cheaper ultrasonic devices seem too inconvenient. But that's what you pay for on the higher-end devices: convenience and perhaps a few more tweaks added in. To each his own!

[@johnadams6569]

Does it work on dirty dancing Rock n Roll records? Can it be used in a commercial record cleaning laundromat?

[@narta11]

I wipe my records down before putting them in my ultrasonic cleaner and that helps the water and solution last longer for another few batches.

[@roscoejones4515]

"This one is $4500.00, but of course since I'm a Stereophile reviewer I got mine for free!"

[@elijahdoughly1678]

Exactly! He doesn't pay a penny for them.

[@DriveupLife22]

You're both ignorant. He was sent an audio desk and was so impressed that he purchased the review unit. It says so right in his original review.

[@Methodical2]

Do you need to warm up the cleaning solution in the US cleaner? I saw in one video where the gentleman heated the water to 40*C. Is that too hot and can cause damage to the album?

[@MJEvermore853]

I never use the heating mechanism on my machine. I read somewhere that the heated water would likely cause the vinyl to warp.

[@Methodical2]

@@MJEvermore853 My researched found that it's good to use heated water, but not over 40*C. I heat to 35*C. Also, the water temperature naturally heats up from the cavitation.

[@MJEvermore853]

Methodical2...thanks for the correction. I may try it at 35*C next time.

[@Labor_Jones]

*'god said, 'be kind to weird people.'* .... So, how's your day? Looks like you are doing a wonderful job. So much fun! - It's always interesting coming to your place. HAPPY NEW YEAR :) - m.

[@sumitagg1]

When are you going to review the kirmuss audio cleaner??

[@Baerchenization]

I only watched it yesterday, but can't seem to find it in my history now (it was part of a show walk around video or something). I like to remember he said it is the best ever (?) which is why I wanted to find it again just now... because that cleans max of 2 12" , explanation being if you put more in there the bubble generation doesn't work properly anymore (or rather they don't pop evenly all over the LPs anymore) etc, so I am not sure why this here, not even purposely made system (i.e. together with any cleaning vat you choose....) would just work with 12 LPs. It probably doesn't, and he does not appear to have given it a proper look here anyway in terms of how it worked on the microscopic level... so I am not sure about paying 600 bucks just for a rinky-dink piece of plastic here. The Kirmuss guys in interview at least said it has a lot to do with the proper placement of the bubble generating element, which you simply don't have buying any random cleaner off Amazon, and they also found 2 discs to be the maximum; I think this guy here simply sticks 12 LPs in there simply because they fit and doesn't give a fuck... btw, since Fremer can't think why it would run for 3 times as long as other machines, OF COURSE because it does not work properly, for the reasons I just alluded to.

[@musicislife2000]

im gonna have to hire someone to clean my vinyl library with that thing

[@junglejamesie]

It's good, but the parts are still pricey for what they are. The fan, for example, is just a 120mm PC fan by the looks of it. Definitely gives a tight arse like me some ideas for DIY-ing it, though.

[@eddiel70]

Yeah you can put this stuff together on your own for cheaper. I priced it out too. The down side, is that you have to do it on your own and know how to do it :) If you have the space, time and tools, have a go I say.

[@junglejamesie]

I'm quite mechanically minded, and I'm sure I can come up with a solution to slowly turning the LPs cheaper than what we see here. The biggest outlay is always going to be the Ultrasonic bath. There's no way the "other" bits should cost more than that, in my humble opinion. I admire the principal behind this product, I just wish it was a bit more keenly priced.

[@Sylvrfonic]

I've decided to try adapting a rotisserie motor.

[@fhussain44]

Were you successful in your DIY method of rotating the records? Someone on ebay has another method, but their parts are expensive too. Curious to know what works cheaply!

[@fhussain44]

Thanks, I ended up making my own for around $30 in parts from ebay. I am using a 12V 0.6 rpm motor that costs $12.

[@LEDFOOT49]

I have a life that’s why I won’t spend $4,500 on cleaning records.

[@commonsense6630]

The vat is an ultrasonic cleaner. $200 has me wondering how high of quality of transducers are potted to the vat. Ultrasonics are common place and used for cleaning through. IMO The record rotary device is awful pricey for what it is. Couple of plastic parts and a small in expensive electric motor for $300? The fan looks like its a run of the mill air cooler for a PC. The ultrasonic probably costs 0 times more to manufacture that that record holding jig. Ultrasonic cleaning records are fault proof. The high frequency vibration transmitted by the transducer will dislodge any debris in the micro grooves. Physics rules. And because it does the mechanical scratches the excite the transducer (stylist and cartridge) are permanent. You can polishes the scratches to reduce the vibration it transmits to the transducer, but you can't expect perfection. The wood glue method, to me, would pull out most of the audible stylist pitching dirt. S far as polishing out scratches, it has to damage the micro grooves, but if your ear is happy so what? 23 cents to wood glue a record and it takes 5 minutes. $600 buys a lot of wood glue, is all I'm saying.Its all good.

[@ElationProductions]

I was kinda surprised at the price too. Looking more into these though, it seems most of the parts are 3D printed by someone in the USA. Part of me sympathies with the guy making and selling these. I do similar things myself and appreciate the effort it takes to bring a product from idea to physical form all by yourself. Still, I think the 3D printing process is best for prototyping and not the actual manufacturing of parts. The high cost of a few plastic parts is due to the long time it takes to 3D print them. If that were me, I'd find a better process for making the actual product in the US, and try to lower the prices to about 1/4 of what they are now.

[@MJEvermore853]

I've tried wood glue on vinyl. Have fun trying to peel it off.

[@Lobo243]

Your system in the back is just beautiful ...what about a video of your system ....???

[@jamestutsock20]

"Everybody" knows his system. Stereophile magazine.

[@johnnypissoff244]

Holland Sobering lol.....things will get better

[@RonEntropy]

He looks, sounds, and reminds me of Jerry Springer. Lol. Thanks for the great info. I'm actually in the market & doing research on the ultrasonic record cleaning machines and this helped a lot on narrowing down my decisions. Very Pricey! Ouch!!!

[@mostirreverent]

the fan should have a filter (e.g. scotch brite), otherwise you are blowing dusty air onto wet records...

[@MrBrodernafluff]

I spent approximatly 600$ on a record cleaning machine and thought that was crazy expensive 🤪

[@ashleycox432]

I'd be interested to know how this machine compares to a similarly priced vacuum machine. I've never found an air drying machines to be particularly effective aside from the Audio Desk, and though this does have the advantage of cavitation, I can't help but wonder if there's anything left behind in the grooves after cleaning. Some also say that certain ultrasonic frequencies can damage vinyl, and I can't help but wonder whether this may be the case if one were to use a cheaper cleaning machine in conjunction with this kit. To me, unless this produces truly outstanding results after playing the records, a vacuum machine represents far better value for money, significantly reducing the cleaning time and reducing the possibility of residue being left in the grooves and collecting on the stylus during subsequent plays.

[@ashleycox432]

I'd certainly agree with you that ultrasonic cleaning is superior. I didn't purchase my own review sample of the Audio Desk, largely because I found the rollers that turned the record would constantly fail to grip anything except thick 180 and 200 gram records, and because there was no means of cleaning 7 and 10" records of which I have a huge collection. That said the results were exceptional. In my comment above I was actually referring to the transducer frequency in kHz. As you rightly said in the video, the ultrasonic transducer vibrates the water, producing microscopic bubbles which penetrate the record grooves, dislodging dirt particles when the bubbles collapse. When the bubble collapses it is effectively creating a tiny jet of water which cleans the record. A higher ultrasonic transducer frequency increases the number of bubbles while at the same time decreasing the energy released by each bubble. The lower the energy released by each bubble, the lower the risk of damaging the surface of the vinyl. Also, smaller bubbles can fit into smaller crevices and are therefore better able to penetrate the grooves. Therefore higher transducer frequency results in a gentler clean, while at the same time producing smaller bubbles and thus a deeper clean of the record. I believe I read somewhere that the Audio Desk uses a high frequency transducer, over 60 kHz. If using the cleaning system demonstrated here, I feel it would be beneficial to use a machine with a similarly high transducer frequency to minimise the potential for any damage and also to achieve a better result. The machine recommended on the website cleanervinyl.com is a 40kHz machine.

[@josephlazaroo1553]

I do not believe it works at 60Khz more like 40Hz at very low power in the 10 watt range.You can't see any bubbles at all unless the rollers are running than you will see fine bubbles being produced. I might be wrong but working with it live makes me wonder.

[@ashleycox432]

You're probably right. I don't think there was ever anything official stating the frequency used by the Audio Desk, though I remember reading something somewhere claiming that it used a higher frequency. I have nothing conclusive either way though.

[@josephlazaroo1553]

Ashley as far as I know after experimenting, the first on my list for the clean record over a microscope and listening. 1. The Audio Desk, KLAudio. 2. Keith Moth, LoriCraft 3.VPI, ClearAudio and the rest of the vacuum cleaning unit. I personally use the KLAudio and LoriCraft. You are correct when using ultra Sonic machine it does damage the groove walls and this you have to limit the clean time at one go to 2 to 3 mins on ultrasonic. That's why I believe Audio Desk user's a very low power output of less than 10 watts ( This is not confirm as I have repaired which has these small IC power amp) One write up I read was a German company recommend an hour in ultra Sonic at 1rpm. It does not specify the frequency. But as many people have a large collection of vinyl records it is better, than nothing in having any kind of cleaning machine you can afford.

[@MJEvermore853]

Joseph Lazaroo, I have the last ultrasonic machine shown in the video...just a different motor and set of label protectors. My records have never sounded better. I've got 55 yr old dusty, grimy Beatles records that were passed down by my older siblings. I've tried to keep them clean with more dumb 'miracle' gadgets and rituals than I care to remember over 40 years in my possession. Some were OK but nothing to write home about. That ultrasonic cleaner makes them sound nearly brand new. Nothing else out there comes anywhere close to cleaning this well. I've had mine for over 3 yrs now. I don't see any damage to the grooves and I clean really dirty ones for up to 15-20 minutes. It's wise not to use the heating mechanism that these machines come with though, as that may cause warping. I dont think warmer water in these things helps anything really, unless you're cleaning jewelry perhaps. Dirty records damage your stylus and give them a premature death. Those damaged stylus (or stilii?) in turn chew up your nice vinyl records. Sometimes a little extra $ is worth protecting your investment. I agree, it's difficult to spend all that money if you're like me and practically living paycheck to paycheck. I could only afford to buy mine after getting a decent tax refund a few years ago. It's paid for itself many times over.

[@LastGenGaming675]

There is one of these for sale on eBay and Amazon with the vat+motor that can do 4 records at a time + drying rack for 271 -300 bucks , check it out I ordered one it's in the mail

[@thejonathandoan]

YOU CAN HARDLY HEAR IT!! Also, love the t-shirt! Is it vintage?

[@TimenSpaceGaming]

I read this comment first before it got to the point where it started, and I just laughed so hard lmao

[@Brendalo1]

When this spins does it get the middle wet as it rolls ?

[@MJEvermore853]

Mike B..thanks for that bit of info. I've got label protectors on my machine and they seal off the label well. TOO well. Sometimes it's almost impossible for me to remove the damn things from the records and I fear that I might break the vinyl. From what you're saying, it doesn't sound as though they're very necessary in the first place. Would you mind telling me how much alcohol and Triton you use?

[@markwallerich1455]

The first ultrasonic cleaner has the sonic transducers on the side of the tank where it is needed for cleaning records. MOST commercial ultrasonic cleaners have the sonic transducers on the bottom which is the wrong place to clean records. The sonic energy MUST be directed into the grooves NOT across the grooves for proper cleaning. Also, if you truly want a clean record, you must remove the record while it is wet, rinse it off with clean water, then wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth.

[@vinstyles]

The noice of that thing, jees

[@Maxseven777]

This is complete and utter madness.

[@Victor-wn8hf]

If you have thousands of dollars of records, you need to find a way to clean them properly or else you will damage both your records and your needle.

[@ArthurJS123]

Nice machine. But, "inexpensive"? Maybe I'm in the wrong hobby, or, doing this all wrong. Yikes!

[@nellyt2807]

ArthurJS123 one actually finds placing one's records into a large pan bringing that too the boil for thirty five minutes actually works very well.

[@Victor-wn8hf]

You need to watch the rest of the video

[@NoEgg4u]

These cavitation based machines are very good, as long as your record is not a filthy mess. If it is a filthy mess, then a quick, base cleaning, with a simple, inexpensive machine, is advisable, followed by the cavitation cleaning (the cavitation cleaning is good for getting out the microscopic contaminants that are lodged in the grooves -- but it is not too good at removing visible-to-the-eye grime).

[@elmhurst86]

Thanks! Good to know. Maybe a Dry-Vac run first with the Dry-Vac wand hooked up to your vacuum cleaner to get rid of the large dust and hairs on the surface.

[@euromix990]

My doubt is: does the 2nd machine do a great job with so many records at time? so little space between one and other ones

[@terryramsey7093]

Is the sound different after cleaning?

[@euromix990]

how much records you're talking about?

[@Methodical2]

Analog, do you believe cavitation-based cleaning is better than those vacuum type cleaners?

[@Methodical2]

Ok Thanks

[@brianmoss5483]

How do they play? Any high freq loss.

[@tomgray6093]

No high frequency loss that I can detect, a gain in the lowering of surface noise though.

[@nickrogers241]

Honestly the Vinyl Vac for 30 dollars does a good job too, $4200 will buy a lot of records!!!!

[@TweakedSystems]

mine looks like only one side of the is bubbling

[@brucetaylor7095]

Has anyone used one of these and if you clean 8-12 records, how well are the inner records cleaned compared to the outer ones?

[@brucetaylor7095]

Hi Mike, since posting my question I went ahead and bought a cavitation cleaner, but not the Cleaner Vinyl system. I could not justify the cost of that when I can buy the components myself for $10. However, until all my parts arrive, I've cleaned up to 8 records at a time in testing and just rotating by hand. I can confirm that with a 10mm spacing between records, the cleaning is unaffected. My cleaning solution consists of 20ml Finish Rinse Aid and 50ml of ethanol in the 6L tank with plain filtered water from my drinking water filtration system. It removes 99.9% of impurities, so that is just fine. The Rinse Aid acts as the wetting agent to get deep into the grooves and also as the drying agent afterwards. I have found no need for a fan as they are dry in under 10 minutes after drying the water. They certainly sparkle and play beautifully after cleaning. I recently bought a brand new Queen album on 200g vinyl that popped and crackled on first playing. After cleaning with the machine, it's totally free of unwanted noise, so it must have cleaned out all the release agent or whatever crud is left on records after manufacturing them.

[@Methodical2]

Bruce, what parts did you buy to assemble and spin the records on the machine? Thanks

[@BILAALporter]

"...This machine costs about $4200, and the way this machine work.........."CLICK" lol

[@elijahdoughly1678]

Pocket change, right?? I am going to buy 3 of them 🙄🤦🏻‍♂️☹️

[@salmonline]

Lol... when you pressed the button, I thought it sounded like a sound effect off a Pink Floyd album, or something.

[@scrunts666]

4K for something that sounds like it is falling apart :p

[@joepasquarello1273]

I like the vat-of-water idea better.

[@trevorcooper1138]

Does it get rid of clicks and pops

[@connorm955]

For that price, i'd hope so!

[@kennethopsal1210]

I have ran this machine for two years now. It is unparalleled. People who are saying $4,000 are psycho. I just bought my second set up. I have one at home and now I just bought one for my music store. I paid for the kit which is $1100. The 1L vat is in extra $100. If you have a spin clean it is useless to this machine. It would be like playing in little league compared to playing in the Major Leagues. I have now cleaned over 5,000 records with my first machine and i use distilled water, few drops of iliford, 4 ozs alcohol. Each record is at least 1/2 grade better. How do I know this I play graded 1,000 records and then when my machine came in I re graded them. Most of these records were at least 1/2 grade better. ONE must have been really dirty because it went from VG to Excellent- a full grade.

[@markwallerich1455]

The cavitation from the "off-the-self" ultrasonic cleaners is directed up from the bottom which goes across the groves rather than straight into the groves (side cavitation) like the special built units. That is why it is less effective and takes more cleaning time. Look up ultrasonic cleaning.

[@MikeGervasi]

Pretty big mark up for 3D printed items. Not sure how much better this is to cleaning with a VPI.

[@raisinyao]

+Analog Planet Hello Sir Michael, I'm a huge fan. I just want to ask something. I know that these type of record cleaner (cavitation type to be specific) is the best and no record cleaner can be at par with its performance. I just want to ask if the clearaudio double matrix sonic (the one with the auto button and fluid tank indicator) is a good buy? What are your personal thoughts about it and can you give what your likes and dislikes about the unit itself and comparison between the clearaudio double matrix sonic and a cavitation type cleaners like Audo Desk or Klaudio. Thank you very much in advanced and hope you can find time to answer my questions. Thanks and again and God Bless! :)

[@TheBoomerPlace]

Great review but I’ll stick with my Spin Clean 🧼.

[@368crv]

The base the cavitation units sits on is more expensive than my turntable :-(

[@jtsamarinda]

A nice video demo. One thing I would like to warn people on the Audio Deck which I had own previously and problems I had with it. Is be aware of your records, I had a couple of my records damage due to the rubber pinch rollers which grip the edge of the record. Damage the first track with a large dimple mark which totally made the record un playable.. If you are using less than a 180gm record is ok. But if you are using 180 gm above the rubber wheel do not grip, as seen in the video when Mr. Fremer needed to push it in and that"s a no, no. I finally settle down for the Loricraft and KL Audio cleaner.

[@jtsamarinda]

Mr. Fremer, thank you for getting back to me on your point. Appreciate it. Yes I would agree on me being irresponsible, but than it's nice to let the other owner's know of it. Before they get them prize record damaged. There are two black cone rubber rollers which pinch the record to drive it. One is stationary which is the drive and the other is spring loader-ed which grip the edge of the groove. That was the design fault. And the damage record still stay's in my collection. It might have been fixed on other machine which I doubt so as I have send my machine 5 times in less than 3 months for repairs to Germany of different problems I have encountered. I guess I might have been an unlucky owner. I would like to hear from other owners who have experience this issue.

[@jtsamarinda]

Mr. Fremer, I guess I leave it at that. Thank You. Season's Greeting'S Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year looking forward to your many interest topic's. Just keep it rolling. Cheers Joseph.

[@jamestutsock20]

5 times and no replacement machine? They are off my future investment in a product list.

[@josephlazaroo1553]

Joey each time I sent for repairs to Germany they replace with another unit. I checked with the serial number was different.I would keep away from them with kind of money spent. I purchase mine from State side. When it first broken down I was ask to ship direct to the manufacture in Germany. It was a pump failure they replace the unit.2 time it was the water will not drain back to the tank. 3 time had a problem with the PCB a IC fault. 4time The roller will not disengage solenoid fault. 5 time Will not start. this was all under the 2 year warranty. And each time I sent it back cost me SGD$160. And what I heard the agent in the States had like 60 unit on the bench waiting to be sent back. And in Singapore the local agent had problem in getting back the unit from Germany for more than 3 months.

[@josephlazaroo1553]

That was Oct 2009 when I purchased. And might say it's the old model now they have improved on it. No Sir a friend bought the latest model the so call Pro-Series had the same problem. I hear that the original owner sold the company to someone else. I do not know if this is true. That what I get from the local distributor over here. When I was so pissed off with it a friend wanted it and I sold it away he had problems, the PCB got burnt. He send it back to Germany. And they wanted to charge him US$1000 for repairs cause of change of ownership. Did not honour the warranty of 2 years. Finally he got it back and has not have any problems with it any more.

[@UberPilot]

The squeaking noise. My wife would kill me. There is no way this would fly in my house. I think the Kirmuss just put this company out of business.

[@nukey555]

can't you just use a hair dryer with no heat after the washing process?

[@9ether-]

@MrWhiteyAllin, In a "clean room" there are particles in the air also.

[@stephencastro1437]

You would think for $4200 it would be quiet and not sound like fingernails on a chalkboard. Just an observation. Thank you Tron.

[@ssnoc]

Overgrown ultrasonic cleaner .... that would clean both records and Zsa Zsa Gabors Jewelry -

[@scififool]

When and how am I supposed to "collect" the albums if I spending all day with these expensive contraptions? I'm sure it works great! But I ain't doing this.

[@WDaland]

fan? How about a hairdryer?

[@EdwardLHern]

Does it have to be so noisy

[@etyrnal]

It sounds terrible!

[@martinfarinha]

4k for something that sounds like a busted washing machine? I would rather lick them clean!

[@mrnobodyz]

A shiny record don’t mean much, you could clean a record with furniture polish and get a similiar effect, surely all that matters is playback quality before and after, especially if these tests involve cleaning new records or ones that aren’t dirty in the traditional sense... cleaning off soap, older cleaning products and MRA should mean that the record will have already been played, so why not a before and after with the same stylus and set up. I just watched a clip where a £500 record was cleaned and there was no mention of results It kinda felt like a waste of time.

[@Labor_Jones]

... it's taking out GOLD TOO... it's not just getting the bad bad mud ... it's taking out the vinyl too maybe not enough, but the bubbles are bombs, right?