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disappointing VPI 16.5 performance??

I just got my 16.5 up and running. I chose to throw some challenging records at it right away because they are really the reason I got the VPI. One is an older recording of a couple oboe sonatas. The other is a brand new Metallica re-master by MoFi.both continue to have high surface noise: the oboe recording seems to have tiny spots all over it, like spotty glasses after washing dishes. It was like that when I got it. The Metallica was horribly contaminated right out of the jacket: debris, "gunk", paper strands, etc.

I'm using MoFi Deep Cleaner, Super Wash, and their brushes, with a double distilled rinse with the VPI brush. Is there something else I can try. There has been some improvement, but not as much I'd like to see.
ethanw

Showing 1 response by ncarv

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ncarv
983 posts
 
On tough records, I use the same process as Rick Hilton.
Be aware . . . some used records look great but sound terrible. (Some look terrible, but don't sound too bad at all!) Visual grading is no guarantee. If the previous user didn't have the cartridge set up right, there could be groove wear that will always result in noise. Also, mold is often (usually?) difficult (impossible?) to remove.
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