You really need a vacuum cleaner such as the VPI 16.5. I got back into vinyl about 18 months ago and considered such a purchase silly. But as I bought used records, I found that I couldn't clean them properly by hand. The VPI was a bargain!

The MOFI brush is the best for day to day cleaning- I've tried 'em all I think. But I agree it might behoove you to get a record cleaning machine. Some of my recent treasures from New Orleans APPEAR to be in perfect condition but have maybe some gumbo junk in a few grooves and make for tiresome noise and even a skip or two. Luckily, most are fine, but it really helps to be able to turn back time a bit when buying used LPs. So that's MY next big purchase too. That and one of those Wadia ipod docks---- serious product lust. The opposite of my analogue obsession, but so good for playing with my son or for parties.

Hey Stephen, long time no see (we crossed paths at HE2006) Great to see you getting into vinyl. See, resistance is futile... About the brushes: The MoFi brush (of the inverted T shape), I use it mainly to spread cleaning fluid across the LP prior to vacuum cleaning. The AQ brush is a carbon fiber bristle brush and it's mainly used on revolving turntable to remove unwanted dust prior to playing. Did I say vacuum cleaning? Yessiree. If you're going serious about vinyl, you NEED a record cleaning machine. More even so if buying used stuff. The sound of truly clean vinyl is more than worth it. Those VPI models sure are fancy and nice, but you don't need to spend lots of money - There are plenty of manuals online for DIY record cleaning machines if you're crafty enough. I use a contraption made out of a junky turntable, a custom wand and a Shop-Vac, and works like a charm. As cleaning fluids go, MFSL's are really good. Get both, and an enzyme-based cleaner to remove old vinyl crud.

Here's what I've been using since 1996: http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=NGRD3 ...and it's still going strong!

Yes, the readers are correct. You will need a vacuum machine. However, I am testing one from George Merrill now that works differently and will report on it soon. The least expensive machine doesn't spin the disc and while this saves money in the short run, over time you will regret buying a hand spinner. Both the Nitty Gritty and VPIs have their advocates. The NG is more compact so if space is an issue get that. But it cleans the underside you can't see, so if bending is an issue get the VPI. On the other hand...putting a clean record on a dirty platter mitigates in favor of the platterless Nitty Gritty...but I like the VPI and use an extra mat that I use at first to place the dirty side of the record on while cleaning the other side. Then I remove that mat so the VPI's cork mat only sees clean sides! BTW: my second DVD, now in production will be all about record care, record cleaning, record storage, record production and record collecting. This has been an unpaid announcement

The mofi brush is good for wet cleaning. The carbon fiber brush de-statics and clears dust off of dry records. You probably need both. Mikey will probably not like this idea, since it requires a certain steadiness of hand and judgment about how much pressure to use, but if you buy a wet-dry handheld dustbuster vacuum (about $25-- mine is Black and Decker), and an extra set of mofi brush refills, you can take the refills, cut them into the appropriate shape, stick them (they're adhesive) onto the mouth of the dustbuster, and *really carefully* use it to suck the fluid off of the record you just scrubbed with your fluid of choice and the mofi brush, you'll get about 90% of the results you'd get with a $300 Nitty Gritty. For about $30. If you're feeling flush, go buy a cheap and used turntable, preferably direct drive, to rotate the record while you vacuum. I've been doing this for about 2 years, and haven't damaged a record yet. I'll email you a pic if the concept isn'

Oh, and Music Direct *owns* MoFi. Easier to just go to the source. (The Abraxas LP is probably fantastic-- I bought the Mofi CD, and it's almost as good as my 70's pressing of Abraxas, which is high praise for a CD. I couldn't justify buying another vinyl copy...)

ka-ching

Thank you, everyone, for all the great advice and ideas. Sounds like a proper record cleaning machine is in my future.

David: The VPI 16.5 is definitely on my list. Mikey likes it, and it was one of 1996 Products of the Year. Plus: It's a Jersey-boy, like me.

Doug: You've pretty much sold me on the MoFi brush. Thanks so much for the tip. And I'm not surprised to hear that your New Orleans records have some gumbo in them. (Heh heh.)

Beto! Nice to hear from you. Yes, resistance did prove futile, and I'm so glad about it. Thanks for explaining the differences between the MoFi and AQ brushes. I think I understand now.

Paul: The Nitty Gritty Record Doctor seems like an excellent budget choice. I'll definitely keep it in mind. For a bit more money, Nitty Gritty's other models attractive wood finishes. Hmm...

Mikey: Thanks so much for stopping by and dealing out the pros and cons. A lot to think about. I'll be looking forward to that second D

Mikey: Thanks so much for stopping by and dealing out the pros and cons. A lot to think about. I'll be looking forward to that second DVD.

Hey Lionel, it seems like you've figured out a great and inexpensive way to care for your records. The junk shop in my neighborhood has got a couple of old, beat-up Dual 'tables that might do the trick.

Alex: Stop being jealous. It's unattractive.

I can't help it. All that talk of cleaning machines and chemicals gives me wood.

Not surprising coming from a guy who's been wondering whether he should implement an external active crossover and engage in the art of bi-amping.

That was for a buddy of mine. Don't try to confuse the issue, Mr. Clean.

I came across this cleaning setup- it's interesting and sort of makes sense. Way cheaper too although I'm still not sure the vacuum VPI isn't better... http://www.sleevetown.com/vinyl-cleaning.shtml review: http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/gem/dandy.html