[mix4fix]

I'm looking for my first record cleaning machine.

Is there something on the cheaper end of the scale?

[simoon]

Record Doctor II - $200 (includes built in vacuum)

Works GREAT!

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


KAB EV-1 - $169 (you supply own vacuum, less things to break)

Works equally great!

http://www.kabusa.com/ev1.htm

[jarcher]

Yeah - come on over & use my underutilized VPI 16.5 to your hearts content.......don't get no cheaper than that!

But seriously -  the previously mentioned RD II is probably as low as I'd go.  Being prejudiced here, but the really entry level all manual ones just don't seem to be worth the hassle vs hand cleaning.

Alternatively if you want a VPI 16.5, I think I may know how to get one at a very good price.  PM me if interested.

[mix4fix]

My biggest concern is "the long run". Will I be able to get supplies or parts when I need them?

[jarcher]

With a VPI 16.5, these things have been around forever - and probably will be for some time more.  There's not a lot going on inside the box, so unless you use the thing exceptionally hard or frequently, it should give you a lifetime of use.  Don't think VPI is going to disappear anytime soon either, but if you're really paranoid, stock up on the replacement tube with felt things.  Nothing else - including perhaps even some kind of DIY for the tube w/ the felt - can't be sourced somewhere else if necessary. 

So I guess what I'm saying is that if this is a MAJOR concern for you, the VPI 16.5 is probably the least expensive & safest bet.

[jimdgoulding]

I don't think this qualifies as a machine but you won't have to ever worry about parts- Spin Clean Record Washer II and it is on the cheaper side, alright.

[Charles Xavier]

This is in between cheap and expensive. I like the idea of the aluminum chassis. It's a new product from Music Hall so I don't think there are any reviews yet.

http://www.musicdirect.com/p-143775-music-hall-wcs-2-record-cleaner.aspx?source=igodigital&

[JackD]

The MH is just a rebadged Consonance, which is $200 cheaper.

http://shop.grantfidelity.com/Consonance-Vinyl-Record-Cleaning-Machine.html

Grant Fidelity is a long time sponsor at AK

[Charles Xavier]

The MH is just a rebadged Consonance, which is $200 cheaper.

http://shop.grantfidelity.com/Consonance-Vinyl-Record-Cleaning-Machine.html

Grant Fidelity is a long time sponsor at AK

I didn't even know that. At that price I may think about getting one sooner.

[JackD]

Yep, like most everything else Roy sells.  Slight change in color or presentation, then an MH nameplate at a higher price.

[roscoeiii]

What sort of budget do you have in mind?

[jarcher]

The MH is just a rebadged Consonance, which is $200 cheaper.

http://shop.grantfidelity.com/Consonance-Vinyl-Record-Cleaning-Machine.html

Grant Fidelity is a long time sponsor at AK

You really can't argue with that!  Funny how they take a dig at the "other" RCM (ahum...the VPI 16.5), but they make good points.  The 16.5 to some degree is an "inertial" product, meaning they haven't felt the need to improve in any way something that basically just gets the job done.

Seems worth "taking the chance" on this relatively new product.