HiFi_Pig

Pristine Vinyl have done it again..!

by Reviews

Yet another fabulous review for the ViVac Record Cleaning System (RCS) with the highly reputable HiFi Pig Magazine awarding it their top score of Five Hearts.

Let’s dive in and see what Janine Elliot, a lifelong vinyl fan, had to say about the machine when she took it into her home and used it on some of her favourite records.

Straight Out of The Box Simplicity

Whilst initially concerned about the complexity of the system, Janine needn’t have worried.  Straight out of the box, she had no trouble getting the machine up and running, and deep cleaning some of her favourite records.

The Magic Thread

The system was originally prototyped in the 1960s by the late, great Percy Wilson who was the Technical Editor of Gramophone Magazine, which resulted in the first ever electronic cleaning  machine, imaginatively named, ‘The Record Doctor’.

Further development took place, based on a thread and vortex vacuum system, which has now been used across the world for almost six decades.

As Janine correctly points out, the thread does not clean the record but holds the precision nozzle at the perfect distance from the record’s surface, ensuring the vacuum works efficiently and deep-cleans the records each and every time.

No Recontamination

There is no other cleaning system that guarantees that dirt from one record isn’t transferred to the next one being cleaned.

Ultrasonic, felt strip and spin cleaners all suffer from this fundamental flaw.  As Janine rightly points out, you wouldn’t share your towel and bathwater with lots of other people, but if you’re dragging a brush around the record or standing them in a vat of already used cleaning fluid, that’s exactly what you’re doing. 

The ViVac is different: only the thread touches the record’s surface and this is disposed of automatically when each side has been cleaned, as is the small amount of cleaning fluid used.

Speedy Cleaning

With the ViVac RCS, there is no need for a pre-clean. The automatic clean fluid application arm is supplied by a medical-grade peristaltic pump that delivers the perfect amount of fluid each and every time.

Once applied, the vacuum arm is then placed near the centre of the record and the ViVac does the rest.

Repeat the process and put the record either straight on your turntable, or slip into a clean inner sleeve for later. No more drip-drying, no more hairdryers, no more kitchen worktops covered with cleaning products and records.

Build Quality

The ViVac RCS is a high-quality product and has a price to match. In terms of the design, manufacture and components, no expense has been spared.

Whilst a felt-strip cleaner is effectively a motor and a vacuum normally housed in a chipboard box, and an Ultrasonic cleaner is simply a metal container that utilises a Piezoelectric Transducer that can be purchased at low cost, the thread and vortex cleaners are a whole different proposition.

The high-quality CNC-machined parts, two high-torque motors and speed controllers, a German vacuum pump, medical grade peristaltic liquid pump and the precision worm gear and clutch system that drives the vacuum arm, all come at a price.

Design

As the reviewer points out, the ViVac RCS is not just another box that cleans records. Whilst the thread system is proven to be one of the best ways to clean records, competitors’ machines are large, bulky, industrial in appearance and almost twice the price of the Pristine Vinyl machine.

Whilst this is okay for archivists or radio stations, these particular models never sit particularly comfortably in a domestic environment.

By the clever use of design and engineering, Pristine Vinyl has produced something that can sit comfortably in the home, bringing an end to the need for mammoth, rainy-Sunday cleaning sessions, after digging everything out from the under-stairs cupboard, garage or shed.

Just as importantly, the machine is quiet and can be used whilst listening to your newly cleaned records, unlike many other cleaners.

As Janine points out.

“I found this the best looking, and it would look great sat next to my turntable.”

This was exactly what we we tried to achieve with the ViVac RCS. Whilst the product may not be the cheapest cleaner available, it is simple to use, quick, quiet, offers fabulous cleaning results and if it’s out alongside your hifi set up, you’re going to use it again and again.

Conclusion

 

There’s little more to be added, other than Janine’s conclusion:

“I could not believe just how effective the ViVac vinyl vacuum system would be, and I will certainly re-evaluate my own thinking on record care. Unlike my Blackstar album, I give this RCS five stars.”

SHOP NOW
Pristine_RCS_blog_post

Not All Record Cleaning Machines Are Created Equal

by Product

Whilst exhibiting at the Bristol HiFi show some years ago, I was chatting with the late, great Paul Messenger who was/is still considered a sage when it comes to all things HiFi.  A man of huge experience who had lived through the days of valves to solid state amplifiers, from Garrard 301s to esoteric turntables with air bearings and linear tonearms.

I remember being particularly impressed by the fact that, in his own admission, he had a pair of Quad ESL 57s in his bedroom.   At the time, I imagined the almost constant early morning toe-stubbing or the fact that Paul lived in a palatial mansion that could accommodate such a trip hazard. But I digress.

The reason for mentioning this is that whilst discussing record cleaning machines, Paul dismissed them saying he never used them.  His cleaning regime consisted of simply running his cartridge over the recommended mass, and playing a record with no sound before listening to it.  This, he believed, was the best way to effectively drag the dirt and contaminants out of the grooves before sitting back and enjoying the music.

Now, I still have great respect for Paul, who lived and breathed all things HiFi and had access to some of the very best equipment available, but, when it comes to record-cleaning I had to respectfully disagree with him.

At that time, cleaning machines were  fairly few and far between.  The choice was high-end, very expensive models, such as the original Keith Monks machine and Lorricraft PRC units, which were preferred by archivists and radio stations with space enough to store and use them and deep enough pockets to buy them.  At the other end of the scale were the felt brush vacuum types that needed ear defenders when using them , which were largely relegated to the garden shed or     garage so as not to disturb the family.

 

Pristine_RCS_2_blog_1

Since then, the record cleaning machine market has blossomed, falling into four distinct camps, namely entry-level spin cleaners (let’s be honest, most of us  started there), felt-wand vacuum cleaners, an influx of ultrasonic cleaners and, what we believe to be the very best, those that use the thread-based precision vacuum nozzle system, such as Pristine Vinyl’s ViVac cleaning machine.

Okay, I can hear everyone say, “But you would say that, wouldn’t you?” but let me explain.

First, a question.  Would you clean your windows with a filthy sponge and a bucket of dirty water? Of course you wouldn’t.  But, with nearly all cleaning systems, that’s effectively what you are doing.  There’s one exception, and we’ll come on to that.

Effectively, with most cleaners you are doing one or both, cleaning them with a filthy sponge or dirty water.  More accurately, you are using a felt wand that has likely cleaned tens, if not hundreds, of records before, or the record is sat in a vat of cleaning fluid that contains the dirt from the previous 20 or so records you have cleaned.

First, a question.  Would you clean your windows with a filthy sponge and a bucket of dirty water? Of course you wouldn’t.  But, with nearly all cleaning systems, that’s effectively what you are doing.  There’s one exception, and we’ll come on to that.

Effectively, with most cleaners you are doing one or both, cleaning them with a filthy sponge or dirty water.  More accurately, you are using a felt wand that has likely cleaned tens, if not hundreds, of records before, or the record is sat in a vat of cleaning fluid that contains the dirt from the  previous 20 or so records you have cleaned.

Not so with the Pristine Vinyl cleaning machine; this works in a fundamentally different way.

Using a tried and tested system developed with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in the 1970s, it uses a specially selected nylon thread and a precision vacuum nozzle to deep clean the record.

The process, whilst it became the preferred choice of archivists and broadcasters around the world, is not the simplest to develop or cheapest to manufacture but, when done right, it offers a huge improvement over other cleaners.

Now back to the window-cleaning analogy.  The Pristine method effectively uses clean water and a clean sponge on every window. No re-contamination, no smears, no dirt, just a clean window every time.

How does this work? The process is genius in its simplicity.  Fresh cleaning fluid is applied automatically to the record’s surface before the vacuum nozzle sweeps across it, lifting the contaminants from deep within the grooves.  The thread is the clever part.  While it does not clean the record, it ensures that the vacuum nozzle is held the perfect and most efficient distance from the record’s surface (just think of putting your hand over a domestic vacuum cleaner’s nozzle and listen to the motor struggle).  Once the side has been cleaned, the now dirty thread is sucked through to the waste fluid container and a clean section of thread replaces it, ready to clean again.  And there you have it, clean water and clean sponge each and every time you clean a side.

So, why are there so few of these machines on the market if they are so good?

Whilst the world seems to be overrun with felt wand and ultrasonic cleaners of all shapes and sizes, the answer is that the thread-based cleaners require real engineering expertise to get right.  Sadly, even manufacturers who once championed this method of cleaning have struggled to achieve a consistent and effective result with their newer models and have fallen away.

Not Pristine Vinyl; we have a reliable, efficient, tried and tested machine using top quality components, offered at a very competitive price. In fact, you won’t find a more cost-effective machine of its type anywhere in the world today.

If you want to know more, get in touch today and let us help you get the very best from your record collection by purchasing one of the best upgrades you can make to your system.

ear_blog

The ear review of the RCS

by Reviews

Pristine Vinyl’s ViVac record cleaning machine has been reviewed by the highly respected audio journalist Jason Kennedy in The Ear, and we’re delighted to share some of his thoughts and findings.

Designed for real-world listening environments.

Jason’s excellent review opens with a general observation on record cleaning machines and his experience of most of them being noisy substantial lumps that can require ear defenders when being used.   Not so, the ViVac machine from Pristine Vinyl.  As Jason notes, it is small and attractive enough to sit alongside a HiFi system and is quiet enough to use whilst enjoying your favourite music.  One of the key takeaways is that if your cleaning machine doesn’t have to live in a cupboard or be relegated to the garage, it’s much more likely to be used.

Effective Design.

The review details the ViVac’s ability to deliver strong cleaning performance whilst keeping the process straightforward and user-friendly.

  • Simple hands-on operation
  • Consistent fluid application using the ViVac’s unique automatic clean fluid system.
  • Efficient vacuum-cleaning system using a precision nozzle and thread which targets the dirt and contaminants.
  • Designed to encourage frequent use. If it’s alongside your system, you’ll use it.

Cleaner Records, Better Listening Experience.

As any vinyl user will attest, the condition of your records directly impacts on your listening experience.  Removing dirt and contaminants from the grooves significantly helps reduce unwanted noise and brings greater clarity to the music.

During the review, Jason noted:

“The sound becomes calmer and quieter and it’s possible to hear more of the music; it opens up the soundstage and delivers what is essentially a cleaner sound.”

Build and Design

The review finds that the ViVac machine contains a solid real wood plinth and the design is well thought out and executed.  Jason adds, “Overall, it’s about the best-looking cleaner on the market and also takes up the least amount of space.”

 And The Conclusion.

“The Pristine RCS achieves what its makers and many vinyl lovers desire, a cleaner that can be left out and used without waking the neighbours.  Combine this with straightforward operation and a sensible price for the build and finish quality and you have a machine that seems like excellent value.”

Read the full review here

hifi

Pristine Vinyl RCS Featured in Hi-Fi+ Magazine

by Reviews

We’re delighted to share that the Pristine Vinyl ViVac RCS2 Record Cleaning System has been featured in Hi-Fi+ Magazine (Issue 126), one of the most respected publications in the audio world.

A Closer Look at the ViVac RCS2

View the full Hi-Fi+ review (PDF)

Bringing Record Cleaning Back Into the Listening Room

One of the standout observations from the review is something many vinyl enthusiasts will recognise:

“Record cleaning is essential… but traditional machines often end up unused.”

Large, noisy, and often confined to garages or utility rooms, many record cleaning machines become inconvenient to use regularly. The result? Records simply don’t get cleaned as often as they should.

The ViVac RCS2 was designed to change that.

According to Hi-Fi+, its compact size, refined design, and reduced noise mean it can comfortably live in your listening space—making regular cleaning part of your routine rather than a chore

Designed for Real-World Use

The review highlights a key advantage: usability.

  • Quick cleaning time – around a minute per side once set up
  • Compact footprint – smaller than many record decks
  • Quiet operation – suitable for home environments
  • Attractive design – available in a range of finishes

This combination encourages something simple but powerful: you actually use it.

And that’s where the real value lies.

Proven Engineering, Thoughtfully Refined

The ViVac RCS2 builds on a well-established vacuum cleaning principle, similar to designs used in archival and professional environments.

However, it introduces thoughtful improvements:

  • Electric pump fluid delivery for consistent application
  • Precision cleaning arm and platter mechanics
  • Manual brush control for targeted cleaning
  • Efficient vacuum system using thread spacing for optimal airflow

The result is a system that is both familiar in concept and refined in execution.

What Difference Does It Make?

This is where the review becomes particularly compelling.

Using real-world test records—including older and well-used vinyl—the reviewer noted:

  • Significant reduction in pops and crackle
  • Noticeably cleaner background noise
  • Improved clarity around instruments
  • Deep groove cleaning, not just surface-level results

Even heavily used records saw a meaningful improvement:

“Many of the more minor pops and crackles simply disappeared while others diminished significantly.”

While no cleaner can remove physical scratches, the ViVac RCS2 restores as much of the original listening experience as possible.

A Practical Alternative to Ultrasonic Systems

Ultrasonic cleaners may offer marginally deeper cleaning, but as the review points out, they come with:

  • Higher cost
  • Increased noise
  • Greater complexity

The ViVac strikes a balance—delivering excellent deep cleaning without the downsides.

For most collections, it’s more than sufficient.

More Than a Machine – A Habit Change

Perhaps the most important takeaway from the review isn’t technical—it’s behavioural.

Because the ViVac is:

  • Easy to use
  • Conveniently located
  • Quick to operate

…it changes how often records get cleaned.

And cleaner records mean better sound—every time you listen.

Final Verdict

Hi-Fi+ concluded:

“The Pristine Vinyl makes the record cleaning process so easy and direct… It will make you clean records more often, and that will make you enjoy them all the more. Highly recommended!”

Explore the ViVac RCS2

If you’re serious about getting the best from your vinyl collection, the ViVac RCS2 is designed to fit seamlessly into your listening setup—and your routine.

Hi-Fi-World

Pristine Vinyl RCS Hi-Fi World Review

by Reviews

We’re pleased to share that Pristine Vinyl has also been reviewed by Hi-Fi World, another highly respected voice in the analogue audio space.
Read the full Hi-Fi World review:
https://hi-fiworld.co.uk/index.php/vinyl-lp/35-accessories/786-pristine-vinyl.html

A Practical Approach to Cleaner Vinyl

The Hi-Fi World review highlights what makes Pristine Vinyl stand out—its ability to deliver effective, consistent record cleaning without the complexity or bulk often associated with traditional machines.

Rather than being something you use occasionally, the system is designed to become part of your everyday listening routine.

Engineered for Simplicity and Results

A key theme throughout the review is balance:

  • Effective deep cleaning without overcomplication
  • Straightforward operation that encourages regular use
  • Thoughtful design suited to real listening environments

This aligns with what many vinyl collectors are looking for—performance without friction.

Why It Matters

Clean records don’t just look better—they sound better.

Reducing surface noise, improving clarity, and getting closer to the original recording are all part of the experience. As the review suggests, having a system that’s easy to use makes all the difference in maintaining a collection properly.

See What the Experts Say

If you’re considering a record cleaning solution, this independent review offers a great insight into how Pristine Vinyl performs in real-world use.

Read the full review on Hi-Fi World:
https://hi-fiworld.co.uk/index.php/vinyl-lp/35-accessories/786-pristine-vinyl.html

Vinyl, macro, винил, пластинка, макро, фон, однотонные, 3072x2048

What The Eyes Can’t See, The Ears Still Hear…

by Product

WHAT THE EYES CAN’T SEE, THE EARS STILL HEAR…

Whilst some prefer the simplicity of CDs, others the convenience of streaming, vinyl-lovers tend to be cut from a slightly different cloth.

For many, they appreciate that, as with most things in life, you get back what you put in, whether it’s attempting a marathon, building a business or getting to the top of your profession, this takes work and dedication; there are rarely shortcuts.

The same is true with vinyl.  For many audiophiles, the journey is as important as the destination, chasing the perfect turntable and cartridge combination, the best-sounding cable, amplifier or loudspeaker. But, as the hardware improves, so must the source material.

Many of us have favourite records that did the rounds at parties and that still bear the scars.  Sadly, until time travel becomes mainstream, physical damage is irreparable. However, too few consider the importance of really cleaning their prized and often irreplaceable records.

Cleaning is more than just a cursory wipe on a sleeve or a quick blow.  Let’s be honest, we’ve all done it.  No, cleaning means getting to the root of the problem, removing the nasties that hide within the grooves.

The grooves are, in effect, the business end of vinyl replay.  This is where is all starts.  Regardless of what follows, if the record is poorly pressed, damaged or dirty these imperfections will be highlighted, amplified and heard. A crackle or a pop is all part of the vinyl experience, but when they become all-encompassing that’s a very different matter.

A poorly pressed or damaged record must be lived with, or taken to the local charity shop, but a dirty record can be cleaned.

From a simple carbon brush to a £5k cleaning system, there is no shortage of options available, and whilst we would of course always recommend the Pristine Vinyl ViVac machine, the pros and cons of the various systems is for a another day.

Today is about the benefits of deep-cleaning your records.  Before we dive in though, a moment’s reflection on what ‘dirt’ actually is. 

Most dirt is formed by dust particles that are attracted to the record by a static charge (more on that later). Oily finger prints also count, as do more aggressive particles that have the ability to damage a record, or the microscopic and invariably expensive stylus that runs on them.

It is these contaminants that we need to remove, not only to achieve the best sound quality but also to protect and preserve your records and stylus.

What follows is a simple real world example. 

A record was purchased from a charity shop, once a mainstay of vinyl collectors but now sadly reduced to largely stocking Leo Sayer and Richard Clayderman LPs (no disrespect to fans of either, of course).

The image below was taken using a digital microscope, which shows a fairly standard level of contamination found on a used and uncleaned record

The second image is interesting, as it was taken after the liberal use of a carbon-fibre brush.  This is the sort of brush that everyone reaches for just before they cue up a record and, as can be seen, it has not removed the contaminants, it has simply spread them more evenly across the record’s surface.  Pretty, but far from ideal.

The final image shows the same record after it has been cleaned once using the Pristine Vinyl ViVac cleaning machine. 

Whilst further improvements could be made with a second clean, the visual results speak for themselves and, Leo Sayer or not, we’d argue that this record is now clean enough to grace even the most esoteric of HiFi system.

Finally, a word on static.  Static is the bane of the vinyl-collector’s life.  Whilst rubbing a balloon on your head and watching your hair stand up may be a great party trick, watching dust make a bee-line to your record the second you pull it out of its sleeve isn’t quite so funny.

Fortunately, the ViVac machine is proven to remove all static charge from the record once cleaned, so they won’t act like dust magnets.

The images speak for themselves. Some will not immediately see the benefit of playing clean records, or go to the trouble or expense of purchasing a cleaning machine but, as you progress on your vinyl journey, there is one old and somewhat crass saying to bear in mind, “Cr*p in, Cr*p out”.  Fortunately, with cleaning systems like the ViVac, this is easily avoided.