I have a VPI HW-17F ($1,000 in 2008). It has all functions of the Typhoon including the black brush/applicator arm not featured on the 16.5, plus an integral dust cover, but is probably not quite as heavy-duty. The Typhoon cleans the same as the 17F, but at over twice the cost. I've cleaned & treated over two dozen LP's back-to-back with no overheating or other problems, which seems more than adequate for this home user. The 17F is my pick of the three; good value at its price point.
I swear there was another VPI version that had the fluid AND brush on one arm, and then the vacuum on the other. either that, or I'm forgetting. Are there only these two models? Also, do you use the anti-static gun on the albums? if so, what sorts of results do you get? When I clean my records, I usually notice a static build up on them.
@mickeycello there was the 17 which was similar but with less suction power, i use knosti antistatic fluid so have,nt noticed any static build up after
@farerse The black arm has a hose connected to it that applies the cleaning fluid to the record, it also has fine bristles on it that loosen and remove debris. Then the other arm, which is the vacuum tube, sucks all the debris and used fluid away. Pretty cool, huh?
I have a 16.5 coming. I really prefer the clamp of the typhoon. I assume it protects the label? I wonder if they are available and fit the 16.5 spindle...
Most cleaning fluids are only worth using on really dirty records only they can end up coating them if used on just dusty records. I think the old dust bug dampened lightly with distilled water is the best thing for dusty records.
The VPI 16.5 is more affordable at $540.00 but isn't quite as "pretty" and doesn't have automatic cleaning fluid application. It also has a much smaller record clamp and is a bit louder - but it does the job for 1/4 the price.
I just bought the 16.5, and I have to say that if you are committed to vinyl, it's worth every penny. It's got a heavy duty build, heavy duty motor, and it makes such a huge difference in sound. The vacuum motor is loud, but cleaning the records with a set of good MSFL brushes ensures a deep clean. Put the difference between the two into your turntable
2nd most powerful. Nitty Gritty 2.5FI is the best machine available, though the Keith Monk and VPI machines are absolutely excellent.
esroberto1 4 months ago
I have a VPI HW-17F ($1,000 in 2008). It has all functions of the Typhoon including the black brush/applicator arm not featured on the 16.5, plus an integral dust cover, but is probably not quite as heavy-duty. The Typhoon cleans the same as the 17F, but at over twice the cost. I've cleaned & treated over two dozen LP's back-to-back with no overheating or other problems, which seems more than adequate for this home user. The 17F is my pick of the three; good value at its price point.
lathrop348 4 months ago
how much?
txteabagger 8 months ago
I swear there was another VPI version that had the fluid AND brush on one arm, and then the vacuum on the other. either that, or I'm forgetting. Are there only these two models? Also, do you use the anti-static gun on the albums? if so, what sorts of results do you get? When I clean my records, I usually notice a static build up on them.
mickeycello 1 year ago
@mickeycello there was the 17 which was similar but with less suction power, i use knosti antistatic fluid so have,nt noticed any static build up after
RBR950E 1 year ago
looks like a fancier VPI-17F
Anderskh 1 year ago
i dont see what the black arm does
farerse 1 year ago
@farerse the black arm is the suction and removes all dirt and solution from record
RBR950E 1 year ago
@RBR950E and the white arm sprays cleaning fluid ?
farerse 1 year ago
Comment removed
StewedNKeefed 1 year ago
@RBR950E Actually the Black arm is the solution applicator/brush and the clear tube on the right is the vacuum tube.
cranie4 1 year ago
Comment removed
StewedNKeefed 1 year ago
@farerse The black arm has a hose connected to it that applies the cleaning fluid to the record, it also has fine bristles on it that loosen and remove debris. Then the other arm, which is the vacuum tube, sucks all the debris and used fluid away. Pretty cool, huh?
StewedNKeefed 1 year ago
I have a 16.5 coming. I really prefer the clamp of the typhoon. I assume it protects the label? I wonder if they are available and fit the 16.5 spindle...
cranie4 1 year ago
Most cleaning fluids are only worth using on really dirty records only they can end up coating them if used on just dusty records. I think the old dust bug dampened lightly with distilled water is the best thing for dusty records.
oviljest 2 years ago
Please post a vid showing the cover.
It was hard to tell but it looked like you cleaned the record in both directions. (?)
punktexas 2 years ago
what is this thing worth?
therealbeaker 2 years ago
Meaning how much does it COST???
$2,200.00 for the 115v model.
The VPI 16.5 is more affordable at $540.00 but isn't quite as "pretty" and doesn't have automatic cleaning fluid application. It also has a much smaller record clamp and is a bit louder - but it does the job for 1/4 the price.
clustercluckfarm 2 years ago
so true eh? What it costs and what it's worth are two totally different things. I've decided to make my own. Search for DIY Record cleaning machine.
therealbeaker 2 years ago
I just bought the 16.5, and I have to say that if you are committed to vinyl, it's worth every penny. It's got a heavy duty build, heavy duty motor, and it makes such a huge difference in sound. The vacuum motor is loud, but cleaning the records with a set of good MSFL brushes ensures a deep clean. Put the difference between the two into your turntable
VivSavage 2 years ago