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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean vinyl records?
You can clean records by hand with a brush and cleaning fluid, but a dedicated record cleaning machine does a deeper, more consistent job by applying fluid and then vacuuming or spinning it away with the dirt. VPI is well known for its cleaning machines, including the HW-16.5, the MW-1 Cyclone, and The Ads, available at Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada.
Do I need to clean my vinyl records, and how often?
Yes. Dust and debris in the groove dull the sound and can add wear to your stylus and records over time. Many listeners clean new records before first play and clean often-played records periodically. A VPI record cleaning machine such as the HW-16.5 or MW-1 Cyclone makes regular cleaning quick and thorough.
What is the difference between hand cleaning and a VPI record cleaning machine?
Hand cleaning with a brush like the VPI Record Cleaning Brush is good for routine dust removal. A machine adds deeper cleaning by drawing fluid and contaminants out of the groove, which is especially useful for used, dusty, or heavily played records. VPI offers both, from brushes to the HW-16.5, MW-1 Cyclone, and The Ads machines, so you can match the level of care you want.
How do I clean records without damaging them?
Use proper record cleaning fluid and brushes rather than household products, wipe in the direction of the groove, and avoid harsh chemicals. A record cleaning machine is designed to clean safely and remove the fluid completely. Our team at Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada can recommend the right VPI machine and accessories for your collection.
How do I choose a VPI turntable?
It depends on your budget, system, and how far you want to take your setup. VPI ranges from the accessible Cliffwood, Scout 21, and The Player, up through the Prime 21 Plus and Signature 21, to the high-mass Avenger, Avenger Plus, and Avenger Reference, the direct-drive HW-40 with a 12-inch Fatboy arm, and the reference Titan and flagship Vanquish. Share your goals and we will help you choose.
What is the difference between a gimbal and a uni-pivot tonearm?
A gimbal tonearm pivots on fixed bearings in two axes for stable, repeatable setup, while a uni-pivot tonearm balances on a single point, which some listeners feel offers a fluid, open sound. VPI is respected for both designs, and some models such as the Avenger Reference are offered with uni-pivot or gimbal arm options. We can help you decide which suits your preferences.
What is a direct drive turntable, and does VPI make one?
A direct drive turntable drives the platter directly from the motor for strong speed stability, rather than using a belt. VPI makes the HW-40 direct drive turntable, which comes with a 12-inch gimbal Fatboy arm, alongside its belt drive designs. Our team can explain the differences so you can choose what fits your listening.
Do I need a phono preamp with a VPI turntable?
Yes, unless your amplifier already has one built in. A turntable cartridge needs a phono stage for extra gain and RIAA equalization before the signal reaches your amplifier. VPI also offers the Anniversary Cartridges to complete a VPI analog front end. If you are not sure what your system needs, we are glad to help.
Do you offer VPI setup and cartridge matching?
Yes. Our turntable specialists at Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada provide setup, tonearm alignment, and cartridge matching for every VPI model, with in-store demonstrations available by appointment. Correct setup gets the best performance and helps protect your records.
Where can I buy VPI in Canada?
Vinyl Sound carries the full VPI turntable and record cleaning range in Toronto, Canada, with free shipping across Canada. Buying from us means genuine VPI products with expert setup support.
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