your comments and description echo my experiences to a tee. I am on my 2nd machine now. Sumiko replaced the first VC-S2 under warranty. After 6 months of use, the second machine pretty much repeated the same symptoms the first machine did. I am a very heavy user. I clean for 4-6 hrs at a time, when cleaning vinyl so machine gets pretty heavy use. The second machine was great for 5 -6 months then repeated same symptoms you described. Finally the vacuum motor locked up. would not turn. So I took the base off and pulled the vacuum motor out. freed up the motor, got it turning. took the motor partially apart and lubed the bushings in the motor. Re-assembled and now its running great again. would also state anyone who wants to get really clean vinyl, needs to procure a USB microscope to be able to see down into the grooves. Otherwise a person is just guessing on how clean the vinyl really is. The main contaminant you are trying to remove is calcium carbonate. It is added to the vinyl formula prior to the pellet stage. After pressing it collects in the bottom of the groove. Looks a lot like mini gravel sitting at the bottom of the groove. The carbonate is what most of the Ultrasonic cleaners are trying to remove. Thanks very much for posting this.
Same here with the increasing level of noise. Also had 2 of the 3 plastic motor mounts break - I never dropped it so that was a surprise. I did drop the plastic record clamp and that broke so I bought the metal one and it works fine. It came with a clear plastic record-sized disc to keep the underside of the record from getting dirty/wet again from the vent but that cracked so it was unusable (used a junk 10 inch record instead). Other than those, absolutely no issues 😊
I have an older VPI HW-17. It has been super dependable for the last 20+ years. It gets light use but it has been very effective. The vacuum tube (not an audio tube, clear plastic tube with felt) has to be replaced periodically and that is not cheap by any means, about $75..I enjoy your channel!
Had the same issue. They sent me the ALU as a replacement machine as my VC-2 had the same issue. I've had the ALU for a year and the vacuum arm is now corroded (using their record cleaner) and the vacuum sounds like yours. BTW, if you send it for repair out of warranty, they ask you to include a check for $160 which is the minimum. They could easily offer a new vacuum for $75 - $100 and let the user replace but they won't as they don't make any money.
I have the small brother and I love it. No issues so far the only thing I did is install a 90 degrees pipe so the exhaust don’t bother the record. But now days I only buy new records so the demand on the machine is not that bad.
@@lauher21 hi, like I mention I just got a 90 degrees pvc pipe long enough to clear the box and all the exhaust is away from the record. Just make sure that the pipe is square and not curb on the angle because it might touch the record.
Great vid, and sorry about your problems with the VC S2. About a year ago I was trying to decide between this and the VPI HW-16.5 and ultimately decided to go with the VPI. After hearing similar stories to the one you gave, I think I made the right choice. I also have a Degritter that works fantastically, but it's hard to recommend because of the price tag. Not sure what I'm going to do when that unit ultimately bites the dust. The great thing about the VPI is that they pretty much last forever, and even when something breaks, they're pretty dead simple (and reasonably inexpensive) to fix. I just swapped out the vacuum motor on my unit and it was actually a lot of fun doing so.
I use an Okki Nokki machine, but I had one of the early ones that was problematic, I went through two warranty exchanges before I got a good long lasting one. I think they are made better now. If the Okki Nokki quits, I am going ultrasonic.
I really need help, I have tried to use this machine with all kinds of cleaners and even with distilled water and continue to get gunk on my needle after the cleaning process is over it is so annoying. Any help would be greatly appreciated
Thanks for your review. I had read the Pro-Ject was having problems. I had thought of buying one, but I think I'll look elsewhere or just stick with what I have. I'm a heavy user because of crate digging. Of course my dream cleaner is a Loricraft. My current setup is a DIY record cleaner. The base is one of those component towers from the '80s that had a glass front door, shelves for electronics and a hinged top for the turntable. I bought mine at the Salvation Army for $20.00. I then ordered a replacement wand assembly from VPI for $85.00. I also ordered a spare 45 wand. That is hooked up to a small wet vac from Lowes. For the platter, I bought an electric ice cream churn from Goodwill for $3.00. I then took the platter from a junk entry level Sony turntable and epoxyed the lid of the churn to the bottom. I cut a hole in the top shelf of the tower and mounted the ice cream churn motor underneath. The platter just sits on the motor. I don't use the original plastic arms from VPI, I ordered the correct size plastic tubes and custom made my own, including the felt pads. I made wands for 12", 10" and 7". They cost me a couple of bucks each. For cleaning fluid, I use Sparkle window cleaner that is available at my local Ace Hardware store. It was originally formulated to clean the plexiglass domes of WWII bombers and is safe to use on all plastics (I've read the safety sheet). I spray the record, wipe with cotton makeup pads, then rinse with distilled water spreading the water with paint pads. I've tried fancy (and expensive) cleaning fluids and nothing does a better job than Sparkle.
Since you are a crate digger, a ultrasonic may be the way to go. One of those Amazon kits where you can clean multiple records ata a time. Thanks for watching
l invested in a VC-S 1 for my original collection from the late 60’s. Brilliant but the vacuum has always been loud. Though when it was new it cost £400 ish. At least l could sell it for £300 hopefully.
I have the smaller version of this machine- the VC-E. I'm on my 3rd unit after the first two sounded like yours. Within a couple of weeks it started to sound like a meat grinder again!! I think for all intents and purposes, they all end up sounding like this. Mind you, they still work fine but, it's not the most pleasant experience! Rather than wasting my time on yet another replacement, I'm going to tear into the machine and see if there is a fix. If someone has already found a solution, please post on TH-cam.
I use this machine. As i payed 470aus $ for it..new..no complaints. Sometimes I have to do a couple of go,s on some records..previously cleaned with brush..also the odd spatter..dunno how..but..needs to be removed with a microfibre cloth..but we get there. It's improved every record I've cleaned.
@Arc Photography & HiFi I have it on an ikea trolley..and put it against the couch.outlet end. It deadens sound alot. Good as I have a Karen neighbor upstairs.. although.. she has only complained about power tools, tv and music. Not vcs.
Same question that others have asked, do you have a link for the motor? It was obviously made for something else (anyone know what?). The uk suppliers of the machine are asking £150, but currently don't have any in stock anyway. This is pricey for a vac motor (which are often around half that or less), but I can't find one of around the stated wattage of 800W. Any help welcome. Thanks.
Vinyl Vac! Damn site cheaper, half as noisy, probably better results. But yea, if I could afford a degritter, well, maaaybe, provided the reported damage to records isn't really a thing.
You should always use some kind of hearing protection when using a record cleaning machine. Have a nice day I also use ai or revolv both ar alcohol free I personally use a squeaky clean rcm from Ontario its manual and I like it better than my vpi 16.5 although I love VPI as a company the squeaky clean is just simple and works great. Have a nice day.
You are correct. I always wear protection when mowing the yard, etc. I should do the same when cleaning regardless of loudness. Before the machine got loud, it seemed just a little louder than a hair dryer. I will have to check out the Squeaky Clean. I’ve never seen that one before. Thanks for watching.
I’ve been using a Squeaky Clean for several months now and I absolutely LOVE it, it’s the best thing I’ve ever used to clean my records. A device that connects to an everyday shop vac-how brilliant is that? I’m DONE with expensive record cleaning machines. I used the VPI 16.5 for over 20 years, going through 3 different units and 4 different vacuum motors. They ALL leaked fluid on the inside of the unit, eventually corroding and destroying the inner components (not to mention fluid leaking out of the bottom of the case and getting all over the place). Every one of those machines (except one that I sent back to Music Direct) eventually ended up in a dumpster. The Squeaky Clean cleans just as well as an expensive machine, is much cheaper, and I actually like the fact that you turn the record manually. It gives me more control-I can go forwards, backwards, and as fast or slow as I like. Anyway, it’s a brilliant device that more vinyl aficionados should know about.
Same exact thing happened to me after about a year. Cheap machine. I threw it away and got a Clearaudio Smart Matrix Silent. Much more expensive but a quality machine. The reason it’s relatively quiet is that the vacuum is not as strong. Takes about 30-45 seconds to dry completely.
I use Audio Intelligent one step. I find it does an excellent job and Is less of a hassle. Some say rinsing with water is essential. I disagree. I’ve tried both methods and have found no difference.
Really, you have to try things for yourself instead of accepting gospel that one reads online. That’s what I’ve learned. I really doubt that anyone could tell the difference between the two methods. I’m not a fan of cleaning records either and anything that will make the job faster and easier is welcome. I was thinking if buying the Degritter as well but I buy only new or NM discs so I felt it wasn't necessary. All told, it only takes about three minutes or less to clean a disc on the Clearaudio.
I have the same problem for the second time with the same model… when it starts to be so noising with the first project machine … you’re close to the end …
Do not buy this Project record cleaning machine. The pump got damaged within the 2 year guarantee period. The machine then sounded like a 747! Ordered a new pump one for €150, but it seems that Project did not have spares! I kicked the Project in the butt. Terrible customer care. Buy a Humminguru.
No don't buy a humminguru as well mine got broken just after 2 years now. China c.. I have now a vevor ultrasonic and a pro-ject and if the pro-ject ever will brake too I upgrade to okki nokki one or record doctor X
your comments and description echo my experiences to a tee. I am on my 2nd machine now. Sumiko replaced the first VC-S2 under warranty. After 6 months of use, the second machine pretty much repeated the same symptoms the first machine did. I am a very heavy user. I clean for 4-6 hrs at a time, when cleaning vinyl so machine gets pretty heavy use. The second machine was great for 5 -6 months then repeated same symptoms you described. Finally the vacuum motor locked up. would not turn. So I took the base off and pulled the vacuum motor out. freed up the motor, got it turning. took the motor partially apart and lubed the bushings in the motor. Re-assembled and now its running great again. would also state anyone who wants to get really clean vinyl, needs to procure a USB microscope to be able to see down into the grooves. Otherwise a person is just guessing on how clean the vinyl really is. The main contaminant you are trying to remove is calcium carbonate. It is added to the vinyl formula prior to the pellet stage. After pressing it collects in the bottom of the groove. Looks a lot like mini gravel sitting at the bottom of the groove. The carbonate is what most of the Ultrasonic cleaners are trying to remove. Thanks very much for posting this.
The easiest way to remove calcium carbonate is with a vinegar solution.
This Project is not for power users. A VPI would be more durable :)
Same here with the increasing level of noise. Also had 2 of the 3 plastic motor mounts break - I never dropped it so that was a surprise. I did drop the plastic record clamp and that broke so I bought the metal one and it works fine. It came with a clear plastic record-sized disc to keep the underside of the record from getting dirty/wet again from the vent but that cracked so it was unusable (used a junk 10 inch record instead). Other than those, absolutely no issues 😊
I have an older VPI HW-17. It has been super dependable for the last 20+ years. It gets light use but it has been very effective. The vacuum tube (not an audio tube, clear plastic tube with felt) has to be replaced periodically and that is not cheap by any means, about $75..I enjoy your channel!
thanks for watching :)
Had the same issue. They sent me the ALU as a replacement machine as my VC-2 had the same issue. I've had the ALU for a year and the vacuum arm is now corroded (using their record cleaner) and the vacuum sounds like yours. BTW, if you send it for repair out of warranty, they ask you to include a check for $160 which is the minimum. They could easily offer a new vacuum for $75 - $100 and let the user replace but they won't as they don't make any money.
I have the small brother and I love it. No issues so far the only thing I did is install a 90 degrees pipe so the exhaust don’t bother the record.
But now days I only buy new records so the demand on the machine is not that bad.
I have the same machine and get gunk on my needle after cleaning. How do you do your process
@@lauher21 hi, like I mention I just got a 90 degrees pvc pipe long enough to clear the box and all the exhaust is away from the record. Just make sure that the pipe is square and not curb on the angle because it might touch the record.
Is that the reason for gunk?
How do you use machine I need all the help I can get lol
@@lauher21 there are videos on how to use it sorry I can’t help tru message
Great vid, and sorry about your problems with the VC S2. About a year ago I was trying to decide between this and the VPI HW-16.5 and ultimately decided to go with the VPI. After hearing similar stories to the one you gave, I think I made the right choice. I also have a Degritter that works fantastically, but it's hard to recommend because of the price tag. Not sure what I'm going to do when that unit ultimately bites the dust.
The great thing about the VPI is that they pretty much last forever, and even when something breaks, they're pretty dead simple (and reasonably inexpensive) to fix. I just swapped out the vacuum motor on my unit and it was actually a lot of fun doing so.
So u have 2 record cleaning machines that cost over $4000 total. That's insane lol.
VPI's are like Toyotas...built like tanks. My loud Pro-Ject is still running BTW. You just have to use ear plugs.
Great little hand tapping.
Loved it!
Glad you liked it!
I use an Okki Nokki machine, but I had one of the early ones that was problematic, I went through two warranty exchanges before I got a good long lasting one. I think they are made better now. If the Okki Nokki quits, I am going ultrasonic.
Ultrasonic is the way to go
Mine just started doing the same thing. I have returned it and now waiting for a vpi 16.5.
I really need help, I have tried to use this machine with all kinds of cleaners and even with distilled water and continue to get gunk on my needle after the cleaning process is over it is so annoying. Any help would be greatly appreciated
Replace the Enzymatic cleaner with the Number 15 pre-cleaner and often you won't need the Super Cleaner.
I think I will try that. I hate cleaning records....the less steps...the better
Thanks for your review. I had read the Pro-Ject was having problems. I had thought of buying one, but I think I'll look elsewhere or just stick with what I have. I'm a heavy user because of crate digging. Of course my dream cleaner is a Loricraft.
My current setup is a DIY record cleaner. The base is one of those component towers from the '80s that had a glass front door, shelves for electronics and a hinged top for the turntable. I bought mine at the Salvation Army for $20.00. I then ordered a replacement wand assembly from VPI for $85.00. I also ordered a spare 45 wand. That is hooked up to a small wet vac from Lowes.
For the platter, I bought an electric ice cream churn from Goodwill for $3.00. I then took the platter from a junk entry level Sony turntable and epoxyed the lid of the churn to the bottom. I cut a hole in the top shelf of the tower and mounted the ice cream churn motor underneath. The platter just sits on the motor. I don't use the original plastic arms from VPI, I ordered the correct size plastic tubes and custom made my own, including the felt pads. I made wands for 12", 10" and 7". They cost me a couple of bucks each.
For cleaning fluid, I use Sparkle window cleaner that is available at my local Ace Hardware store. It was originally formulated to clean the plexiglass domes of WWII bombers and is safe to use on all plastics (I've read the safety sheet). I spray the record, wipe with cotton makeup pads, then rinse with distilled water spreading the water with paint pads. I've tried fancy (and expensive) cleaning fluids and nothing does a better job than Sparkle.
Since you are a crate digger, a ultrasonic may be the way to go. One of those Amazon kits where you can clean multiple records ata a time. Thanks for watching
@@archifi9978 thanks. I'm watching an isonic video right now.
I have the same machine with the same issue. The problem started after 6 months of use.
If I was a heavy user, mine would have started sooner.
So you should have returned under warranty.
l invested in a VC-S 1 for my original collection from the late 60’s. Brilliant but the vacuum has always been loud. Though when it was new it cost £400 ish. At least l could sell it for £300 hopefully.
You can always sell it. Just basic shop vac parts inside
I have the smaller version of this machine- the VC-E. I'm on my 3rd unit after the first two sounded like yours. Within a couple of weeks it started to sound like a meat grinder again!! I think for all intents and purposes, they all end up sounding like this. Mind you, they still work fine but, it's not the most pleasant experience! Rather than wasting my time on yet another replacement, I'm going to tear into the machine and see if there is a fix. If someone has already found a solution, please post on TH-cam.
I use this machine. As i payed 470aus $ for it..new..no complaints. Sometimes I have to do a couple of go,s on some records..previously cleaned with brush..also the odd spatter..dunno how..but..needs to be removed with a microfibre cloth..but we get there. It's improved every record I've cleaned.
It performs well...just loud. I still have not gotten rid of it yet.
@Arc Photography & HiFi I have it on an ikea trolley..and put it against the couch.outlet end. It deadens sound alot. Good as I have a Karen neighbor upstairs.. although.. she has only complained about power tools, tv and music. Not vcs.
i had the same loudness problem and after it the motor broke ,, i replaced it with a 65 euro motor and it works fine again
Do you have a link for the motor?
Same question that others have asked, do you have a link for the motor? It was obviously made for something else (anyone know what?). The uk suppliers of the machine are asking £150, but currently don't have any in stock anyway. This is pricey for a vac motor (which are often around half that or less), but I can't find one of around the stated wattage of 800W. Any help welcome. Thanks.
@@colinbox9074 the channel owner wount let me link it .. i tryed like 10 times
Where do you buy your recomendation for cleaning fluid?
I like Audio Intelligent
would you happen to have a link where you bought the US machine from? I am interested in getting one. Thanks very much.
Thanks for watching www.musicdirect.com/cleaning-machines/pro-ject-vc-s2-alu-record-cleaning-machine
I saw lines after cleaning the records, I made all by the book, It go's to the storage.
Vinyl Vac! Damn site cheaper, half as noisy, probably better results. But yea, if I could afford a degritter, well, maaaybe, provided the reported damage to records isn't really a thing.
You should always use some kind of hearing protection when using a record cleaning machine. Have a nice day I also use ai or revolv both ar alcohol free I personally use a squeaky clean rcm from Ontario its manual and I like it better than my vpi 16.5 although I love VPI as a company the squeaky clean is just simple and works great. Have a nice day.
You are correct. I always wear protection when mowing the yard, etc. I should do the same when cleaning regardless of loudness. Before the machine got loud, it seemed just a little louder than a hair dryer. I will have to check out the Squeaky Clean. I’ve never seen that one before. Thanks for watching.
I’ve been using a Squeaky Clean for several months now and I absolutely LOVE it, it’s the best thing I’ve ever used to clean my records. A device that connects to an everyday shop vac-how brilliant is that? I’m DONE with expensive record cleaning machines. I used the VPI 16.5 for over 20 years, going through 3 different units and 4 different vacuum motors. They ALL leaked fluid on the inside of the unit, eventually corroding and destroying the inner components (not to mention fluid leaking out of the bottom of the case and getting all over the place). Every one of those machines (except one that I sent back to Music Direct) eventually ended up in a dumpster. The Squeaky Clean cleans just as well as an expensive machine, is much cheaper, and I actually like the fact that you turn the record manually. It gives me more control-I can go forwards, backwards, and as fast or slow as I like. Anyway, it’s a brilliant device that more vinyl aficionados should know about.
Same exact thing happened to me after about a year. Cheap machine. I threw it away and got a Clearaudio Smart Matrix Silent. Much more expensive but a quality machine. The reason it’s relatively quiet is that the vacuum is not as strong. Takes about 30-45 seconds to dry completely.
Glad to hear you found a suitable, high-quality machine. What fluids are you using?
I use Audio Intelligent one step. I find it does an excellent job and Is less of a hassle. Some say rinsing with water is essential. I disagree. I’ve tried both methods and have found no difference.
@@ericlubow4354 I will try the one step when I run out of my current fluid. Two less steps would be a welcomed improvement
Really, you have to try things for yourself instead of accepting gospel that one reads online. That’s what I’ve learned. I really doubt that anyone could tell the difference between the two methods. I’m not a fan of cleaning records either and anything that will make the job faster and easier is welcome. I was thinking if buying the Degritter as well but I buy only new or NM discs so I felt it wasn't necessary. All told, it only takes about three minutes or less to clean a disc on the Clearaudio.
I have the same problem for the second time with the same model… when it starts to be so noising with the first project machine … you’re close to the end …
That's what I am afraid of :(
just waited 3 weeks for one to be delivered and vacuüm did not work comple waste of time.
My is still chugging along, however, when funds become available I'm looking at a Degritter
Do not buy this Project record cleaning machine. The pump got damaged within the 2 year guarantee period. The machine then sounded like a 747! Ordered a new pump one for €150, but it seems that Project did not have spares! I kicked the Project in the butt. Terrible customer care. Buy a Humminguru.
No don't buy a humminguru as well mine got broken just after 2 years now. China c.. I have now a vevor ultrasonic and a pro-ject and if the pro-ject ever will brake too I upgrade to okki nokki one or record doctor X
repackaged vacuum cleaner
Yes..and not a reliable one at that
i use the hand, the sonic and a vacuum.
I'm eventually going Degritter