I won’t participate in the endless and sometimes pointless debate about which cleaning method is best or especially about which static charge removal method is best, but I will say again that eliminating static charge and cleaning an LP are two entirely different subjects. Cleaning machines do not necessarily remove static charge. In fact in certain designs cleaning can enhance the static charge on the surface of an LP, although that is not usual. Mijo is correct in pointing out that removing or reducing the charge on the surface of the LP you happen to be playing does not necessarily remove charge from the entire LP. It has been shown that the charge simply migrates to the downside of the LP, enhancing the charge on that side. And I also agree with the most recent sentiment. If you are new to this part of the hobby, just go ahead and play records. You can worry about the rest of the stuff anytime later and forever more.
Turntable noobie...what advice do you have?
As this forum has corrupted me and I have decided to dive down the rabbit hole of LP's. Usually I stream but I find the tactile experience of records appealing. I have ordered a Pro-ject RPM-3 Carbon with Sumiko Amethyst cartridge and a Mobile Fidelity StudioPhono preamp. Oh, and a record brush. I will be plugging them into my Voyager GAN amp and from there powering my LSA 20 Statement speakers.
I know there is always better equipment to get but I feel this gives a good starting point. I picked up some new records but a half dozen does not a record collection make. So I do plan on making my focus for the near future getting more and expanding my collection. I listen to all kind of music so they will be many different genres. I will be getting new ones but I will undoubtedly get some used ones too.
Okay, so what all would you recommend for someone just getting into this hobby? Especially if I am getting any used records, I should probably look at a record cleaner. What else for equipment or doodads? What about tricks or tips for increasing my collection? In my city there is a record store called Music Millennium that I will be checking out and there of course if Barnes and Noble (where I purchased my other ones). Do you know of places online I should check out? Thanks in advance for your advice.