2. analog
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VPI HW17 vs Loricraft PRC4 Deluxe

So, I have been rolling along for years quite happily with my VPI HW17.  I am aware of its "issues" (noise and the danger that the velvet pad on the vacuum bar will trap and smear dirt). But I clean LPs in my basement, far from either of my audio systems and where noise is not an issue, and I take precautions to avoid the velvet pad problem.  Recently, however, I have been offered the opportunity to pick up the Loricraft at a very nice price, I must admit I am tempted, even though I was not shopping for a new RCM, at all.  This is an appeal to anyone out there who has some experience with both machines or who has a reasoned opinion; should I go for the Loricraft?  I would then have to sell my HW17, and I don't look forward to the issues associated with doing that.  I tried out the Loricraft last night; it's got it's own set of quirks for sure.

lewm

Showing 1 response by rshak

rshak
416 posts
 
lewm - - I've owned a Loricraft PRC4 for about 10 years, during which time I've cleaned many 100's of records and gone thru a lot of cleaning fluid and a couple of spools of thread.  The thing runs quietly and has never failed me.  I stopped using the brush supplied by Loricraft years ago and switched to softer brushes offered by Osage Audio.

Fluids of choice are (1) Nitty Gritty Pure 2 for new records and older LPs in visually excellent shape and (2) "Smart" fluid for "dirty" records.

The Loricraft replaced an aging Nitty Gritty 2-point-something.  The NG did a good job, but the Loricraft is far superior. 

The VPI 17 has received good press, but I have no personal experience with it.


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