[simoon]

Looking to recommend an inexpensive RCM to a friend. Any advice would help.

I've used the KAB before and think it is highly effective. I just recently came across the Record Doctor, so I'm not familiar with it

They're 2 are both under $200 bucks.

The Record Doctor is at $199.

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=RDV

The KAB EV-1 is at $169.

http://www.kabusa.com/frameset.htm?/rcleaner.htm

You have to provide your own vacuum for the KAB, the record Doctor has one built in.


I'm thinking that he will be more likely to use it if he doesn't have to lug out a vacuum each time he cleans records. So, I would be more inclined to recommend the Record Doctor to him, but not if it doesn't work as well.

[vinyl_guy]

What about the Spin Clean, http://www.spincleanrecordwasher.com/

[S Clark]

I use the EV-1 and agree that hooking up the vacuum is an inconvenience, albeit a small one.  However, it does have a nice roller bearing under the record that makes it much easier to manually turn the lp.  If you get the Record Dr. I'd look to add the bearing.  Available from KABUSA for $15.

[simoon]

What about the Spin Clean, http://www.spincleanrecordwasher.com/

These aren't bad. But I believe unless the fluid, with whatever particles are suspended in it from the cleaning proceeds, are not removed by vacuum, much of the dirt is going to remain in the grooves.

I use the EV-1 and agree that hooking up the vacuum is an inconvenience, albeit a small one.  However, it does have a nice roller bearing under the record that makes it much easier to manually turn the lp.  If you get the Record Dr. I'd look to add the bearing.  Available from KABUSA for $15.

My friend is lazy. Just him getting back into vinyl is a minor miracle. Asking him to do anything beyond the minimum is not a good idea.

Adding that KAB roller bearing sounds like a great idea, and well worth $15.

[vinyl_guy]

These aren't bad. But I believe unless the fluid, with whatever particles are suspended in it from the cleaning proceeds, are not removed by vacuum, much of the dirt is going to remain in the grooves.

I don't disagree (I use a Loricraft PC-4). I've seen some posts on here from ACers who seem to think it does a good job for the money.

[jimdgoulding]

I use a hand held, small brush for this purpose after a Spin Clean.  You can put some pressure on it as you rotate it around to pick up anything that might be left behind.  Seems good to me.  It is, in fact, a Last appicator brush.

[Gzerro]

I use the KAB EV-1. I like not having the vacuum built-in - one less thing to worry about breaking. Also, it is super small so easy to tuck away on a shelf.