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Audio Desk Systeme RCM - what's been your experience?

Hi All,

I have owned an ADS RCM for a little under 3 years. During that time, I've been able to work through my 3500 LP collection at a cleaning rate that just wasn't possible with my former RCM, the reputable VPI 16.5...so, in general, because of the ease and effectiveness of cleaning LPs, I've savored my time with the ADS RCM.

That is until now...

"Both the pump and ultrasonic transducer are failing" was the diagnosis delivered by the US distributor after the RCM abruptly stopped working. Essentially DOA...and out of warranty.

Before I formulate my next move, I'd love to hear from current or former owners of ADS RCMs - what have been your experiences with the reliability of the Audio Desk Systeme RCM?

Thanks for your time - appreciated!
soulbrass
ebm
9,311 posts
 
KL Audio is the best machine nothing to replace works wonderful.
dgarretson
2,597 posts
 

From what I could learn through research prior to purchasing a top-quality medical grade ultrasonic cleaner, all ultrasonic transducers eventually wear out and require replacement. That clinched my decision to avoid all expensive audiophile-vetted units with mysterious parts inside, and instead purchase the best commercial unit I could find(German-made Elmasonic with dual 37kHz and 80kHz frequencies). I added an LP spinner from ebay and am in the process of adding a pump circuit with 1 micron filter. Total cost was around $1700.

My VPI 16.5 worked for twenty years without requiring service. I don’t expect as long a life from an ultrasonic cleaner without servicing, but it does do a better job than the VPI.

jeffkleinberg
23 posts
 
I also had the pump failure upgrade scam.  I love my new pro machine, but very costly.  Nothing better for cleaning/convenience, but can only recommend with caveat regarding reliability, only time will tell.

Jeff

whart's avatar
whart
3,031 posts
 
I think the semi-DIY route @dgarretson described is not only more cost effective but offers more flexibility, particularly if you are willing to forego some of the convenience of the "one button" fully automatic audiophile models. The commercial audiophile machines (and I have owned both the Audio Desk and KL) have some limitations compared to what you can achieve with the semi-DIY route.
I am in the throes of planning another machine (not for resale, just for my own use).
Dgarretson-can you speak in a little more detail about the pump circuit with filter? One of the desirable features may be the ability to filter the water in the bath between cleaning cycles. I don’t know if you are using any kind of surfactant to enhance cavitation effect. I’m still trying to sort out the filtering issue as it relates to using a surfactant, since I assume the filter is designed for particulates- and I don’t know how the surfactant impacts the filter's effectiveness. (This is a work in progress for me- still learning). Thanks....
dgarretson
2,597 posts
 

@whart

I followed advice on a couple of DIY sites with respect to chemistry and filtering. A surfactant like Kodak Photo-flo 200 definitely helps, together with isopropyl alcohol, a drop or two of Dove detergent, and maybe a drop or two of Finish drying agent. The filter circuit will be a Little Giant 1-AA-OM pump(originally purposed for hot beverage dispensers), a Hydronix HF2 filter housing for 2.5" x 5" filters, and Hydronix SDC-25-0501 one micron filter cartridges. According to another DIYer, the Little Giant pump is strong enough to push through the fine mesh of a 1 micron filter.

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