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White residue on stylus

I have found that when i look at my lp under a 30x microscope i can see what looks like a clear liquid or maybe a crystal like substance in the grooves . This is in a very small area but there are a number of these throughout the album. The album has been cleaned 6 times using the following process with AIVS cleaning system.
Enzyeme formula ,light scrub and soak for 30 min. then steam and vacuum.
Super clean formula , light scrub soak for 30 min. and steam and vacuum.
I have repeated this 5 times, with an inspection with the 30x microscope each time. After each cleaning the lp is getting cleaner but the clear substance in the groove has only reduced by about 50% . On the last clean i lightly scrubbed for about 5 min which did reduce it a little more. I have noted the location of these deposits in relation to the label and i am able to view it after each cleaning to monitor the progress so far. I am sure the pops i here are these deposits.
I notice when i play the album i have a buildup of white powdery residue on the stylus that is easily brushed off or removed with a Magic eraser lollipop.

Does anyone know what these deposits are or what is the best way to remove them?

The albums are New old stock direct to disc that have been stored sealed for about 27 years.
tshulba

Showing 3 responses by restock

restock
831 posts
 
Albert, thanks for the response. Just to clarify whether we all are talking about the same white marks: here is a thread with a picture of the white marks I find on Music Matters, AP and some Cisco LPs (all pressed by RTI):

Audioasylum thread with pictures
restock
831 posts
 
There is another thread on the same subject started a little later. Not sure whether this is the same problem but just in case, here is the info I got on a thread on the phonogram email list a while ago:

There have been some problems at the RTI with a patch of inner sleeves that they received from their long-time supplier. The glue that holds the plastic in the paper sleeves leaked through the plastic and causes the white marks on the vinyl.

It should not affect the sound, however if the other thread is correct about white-stuff accumulating on the stylus, I would think this is a problem. Also, I am worried about long-term effects on the record. Finally, this will seriously lower the resale value of affected records (some original Blue notes with similar stains went for $40 instead of $400.)

There is almost no point contacting the dealer where you bought the records, as most likely all the LPs in stock will have the same problem! I have about 7-8 Music Matters and AP titles that have the problem. At $20/LP I probably wouldn't complain, at $50 I am more than annoyed that RTI doesn't institute a recall of the affected titles.
restock
831 posts
 
Albert, did the Micro cleaner completely remove the white marks on the Music Matters and other RTI pressings?

That would be a perfect solution together with replacing the faulty inner sleeves.
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