Vinyl Care

Everyone with a collection of vinyl records knows how important it is to keep them clean. Every use exposes them to environmental impurities that accumulate over time, resulting in a build-up of dirt inside the record grooves that can negatively impact the playing cartridge’s lifespan and the overall sound performance of a vinyl hi-fi system. This dirt often consists of both organic and man-made residues that combine to “grate” at the record wall when a stylus is in the groove. The VC-S MK II removes these impurities in a quick, efficient and cost-effective way to extend the life of your records, and bring greater musical enjoyment to your hi-fi experience.

The VC-S MK II has been designed to build on the international success of Pro-Ject's first Record Cleaning Machine (RCM), the VC-S. Though it still retains aspects of the original design, improvements in the arm, motor, clamp and chassis in the MK II further enhance both the unit's performance and the ease of use.

The VC-S MK II boasts the same specially selected vacuum technology as the original model, meaning a record side can be dried in as little as two rotations, but the motor has been replaced with a new low-noise type that still delivers the torque and speed required for quick operation. The new motor is also still capable of dual-directional rotation, for deeper cleaning of the record groove.

Elsewhere, the VC-S chassis now has printed (rather than stickered) labels for a sleeker, more professional finish. Similarly, the new long-life brush with plastic handle gets deep into the record groove for optimal cleaning performance. The re-designed stainless steel clamp makes an even more reliable fastening to the platter spindle, while the rubber layer on the inside of the clamp continues to keep record labels safe and dry. Finally, the improved plastic flange with additional internal sealing ensures a smooth adjustment of the vacuum arm, while retaining the highest possible suction performance.

Otherwise, the overall design of the VC-S is retained in the MK II. The clamp avoids the need for a platter, which could potentially bring dirt into contact with a clean record surface; and the vacuum arm is robust and mechanically stable with no spring mechanisms.

The VC-S MK II In Use

Operation of the VC-S MK II record cleaner is effortlessly simple. First, apply a small amount of cleaning fluid to the record surface using the supplied applicator bottle and set the new, quiet motor spinning. Then use the supplied goats’ hairbrush to spread the fluid across the record surface, optionally changing the motor direction to ensure the entire groove is covered. Finally, set the vacuum arm over the record and turn the suction on. Within a few rotations (in both directions), the record side will be cleaned and dry, ready for playing like new.

The accumulated solution that’s sucked through the vacuum is filtered away from the built-in electronics and stored in a 2.5-litre waste container. The fluid level gauge on the side of the VC-S chassis indicates when the tank is nearly full, and discharging the waste liquid is effortlessly simple with the supplied funnel.

The VC-S MK II is supplied with Pro-Ject’s improved cleaning solution, Wash-IT. Wash-IT does not contain alcohol, which can harm record surfaces. Instead, it contains only high-purity components, which are 100% eco-friendly, non-toxic and non-flammable. It's also designed to evaporate without leaving any residue on the record surface after drying. After mixing with distilled or demineralised water, one litre of Wash-IT can be used to clean up-to 1,500 records.

The VC-S MK II is supplied with all the accessories you need to get started, including 100ml of Wash-IT. Separate accessories, including an optional dust cover, a 7” record cleaning kit and various sizes of Wash-IT cleaning solution, are also available.