posted on February 26, 2004 10:13:31 PM
I know there are a few record dealers out there. I have some 78 rpm records that I use on a crank record player that I have. They are mostly big band from the 30's and 40's. My understanding is that after time and several playing, there is a residue left in the grooves that lessens the sound quality.
Is there any reliable method or chemical for cleaning these?
posted on February 26, 2004 11:15:10 PM
A couple of years ago I sold a bunch of old records from the 20s and 30s. Following the advice of someone here, I used a solution of weak, mild dish detergent and tepid warm, and I brushed them either with a soft cloth or a little mushroom brush (that's a very gentle brush), rinsed lightly, and laid on towels to air dry. It didn't seem to hurt them. I protected the paper in the center.
There are other methods which I'm sure you'll hear about here.
By the way, when I'd finished cleaning about a dozen of them, the water was somewhat dingy, so I know I got at least some of the dirt. There were no complaints from the buyers, either.
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posted on February 26, 2004 11:21:21 PM
If you're going to continue on the crank up player, it won't make a lot of difference if they're clean! Wipe with a dry velvet cloth in the direction of the grooves. Or use a DiskWasher record brush it works fine.
If you want to play them on modern equipment, check out www.discdoc.com for the best cleaner there is.
78s generally contain abrasive filler so that the steel needles become groove shaped quickly and wear the record less. Always use a new steel needle, every side if possible. Start from the very edge of the run in groove.
posted on February 27, 2004 12:13:59 AM
Why not try Ajax and steel wool? It works great on a cast iron skillet so it should easily clean a record. Seriously, Mikehooker has an excellent suggestion. I faintly recall a product developed for this very purpose and I believe it carried the DiskWasher brand name. You might want to Google that company and see what they have.
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