I bought the Orbit from their official website and I can tell that the sound quality has greatly increased after using the Orbit. It is much better than my static gun that I bought before.
I’m pretty happy with the Furutech - DeStat III. It’s pretty expensive but it only takes 15 seconds (or 30 if I have to hit both sides). It does work great though. To me it was worth the money.
@ Sure. I don’t like to use new sheets without drying first. So save a few from your laundry. Pierce a small hole in the center and place on your platter with the spindle in the hole. Then, place your record on top and play. Replace every dozen or so times you listen. If you’re skeptical, take the record and see if toilet paper or tissue will be attracted to the record. If so, rub the dryer sheet on the record and repeat the experiment.
Maybe you should find a way to do a comparison between this and the zero stat to see if it is worth the price difference. Also, maybe do a video with a rundown of all the essential accessories and a running tab of the total cost of all these accessories. There can be quite an added cost when you add up all the essential accessories. Some accessories aren't necessarily essential, but there are several that you really need to have at a minimum.
I got a Zerostat 3 about a week ago, on your recommendation. Works perfectly. It is the last, I mean the last, bit of gear I'm going to get. (Yeah. Right Stanley...) Have a good Sunday.
I've owned my Zerostat "gun" for probably four decades. I've used it for more than just records. It works well on photographic negatives, Styrofoam (or its similar looking cousin, extruded polystyrene foam) and just about anything I've encountered that's loaded with static electricity (like clothing). To me, in this day of CDs, DVD's and streaming, all of these means to prepare a record seems old and annoying. Younger folks may enjoy this ritual, as it's something new to them, but at 68 years of age and having routinely spun records since I was 2 years of age (no exaggeration), going through the motions reminds me of the same rituals people had to go through to start their cars, by inserting a handle at the front of their vehicles and crankin' the crap out of it to start the engines. For the most part, record playing barely comprises 10% of my playing time. I'm almost addicted to surround sound albums, and properly mastered CDs. I can still remember all of the horrible pressings in my record collection, and only a handful of really decent ones. Just like some people like making pasta or salad dressing from scratch, I prefer to just have a lot of that effort removed, and get down to eating a meal ASAP. To each their own, but it's weird seeing "audiophiles" who will pay insane prices for toys that not only empties their pocketbooks but also highlight the real limitations and flaws in analog music playback mediums.
I also live in New England, I run 2 air purifiers and still get dust particles just walking my record over to the turntable to play after cleaning. Finally picked up the Furutech Destat III (broke open the piggy bank) a month ago and man that thing works Amazing. I like that I can replace the batteries in it. I'm not crazy about built in rechargeable batteries.
If you have an air cleaner with an ionizer function, holding the record vertically in front of the air path for about 20 seconds actually works pretty well in my experience.
If you understand electronics, it is very easy to make an air ionizer yourself. I made it for myself about six months ago and have been using it with great success. I really liked the idea of rotating the device on the record. I need to think about how to implement this in my device. Thank you.
Thanks for posting - I have and love the Humminguru Nova and appreciated your review of that device. Strongly looking at one of these, and your calm, thorough, and fact-filled review helps so much! I did break down and order a static meter first to make sure that purchasing the Orbit will solve a real problem.
@@TheJoyofVinylRecordsI got the NEWTRY 003 off of Amazon - will be happy to report back mid-week. I don’t mind paying for the Orbit IF the meter shows measurable static. It’s just hard when you can’t “see” the static and some of the noise could be from other sources. I just upgraded to the Humminguru Nova from Spin-Clean - the audible difference is significant, but I do miss being able to admire the glass of filthy water at the end of a Spin Clean session!!!
@@TheJoyofVinylRecordshere’s what I found in my carpeted listening space in Nashville TN - sure enough, there is static on my vinyl before washing - avg .2kv. That drops to 0 after washing in Humminguru. There is static generated by stylus on vinyl, again avg .2kv. There’s also static after re-sleeving in MoFi sleeves, also avg .2kv. Interestingly, static drops to 0 after use of anti-static brush -
They still make them. They advertise them for health benefits (sleep on them, stand on them, whatever). I bought a couple. I tested their conductance and they do, surprisingly, pass a charge. I bought mine on Amazon.
Have you try out Furutech Destat III? I think it would be even better than HumminGuru Orbit though it's hand held and not automatic but atleast it won't take you over minute to remove static. Also you don't have to clean the device itself afterwards.
Thanks for the review! Anyone out there tried the Furutech Destat? It currently sells for 370 US$ on Amazon. A bit more expensive than the Humminguru, but not a lot. It is supposed to be a bit quicker in action than the 1.5 min the Humminguru takes.
Yes, I have both. The Destat is so much quicker and better that for me it's a no-brainer. It's quicker than that HumminGuru contraption and you can use it on other things besides records. Not cheap but worth it to me. Note: One caveat is that it takes two AA batteries, and I've found it has to be 1.5V alkaline. I tried NiMH rechargeables but they are 1.4V and won't work.
I'm not sure it is worth the huge price difference though. I mean, if the Zerostat can get lets say 80-90 percent of the way, is it worth another $200 to get close to 100%?
The Humminguru and Furtech devices get to the same level as a Zerostat or Thunderon brush. All of those options get it done. The only difference is how much one is willing to pay for extreme convenience or laziness, which usually comes with more caveats anyway. Example, the Zerostat, Thunderon brush and Furtech take seconds to do the job, while the Humminguru device takes minutes. The Humminguru device is used while the record is on the turntable, while the Zerostat, Thunderon and Furtech devices are used with the record off the table. (Although those can be used while the record is on the table, they are far more effective with the record off the table). I use the Zerostat and Thunderon brush myself and both have gotten me 99% of the way. (One to two squeezes of the Zerostat or two swipes of the thunderon brush). *Note: Thunderon is not a brand, but a material. One can find appropriate thunderon brushes on amazon, I know SleeveCity carries one and can be found at lab or science supply houses.
Yes! I use the RONXS lighter (9.99 on Azm). I have a length of parchment paper hanging near TT. If the paper gets attracted to the LP I run the wand around it once or twice and POOF its gone. Ronxs was the best money spent since the VinylVac and the Vevor ultrasonic. Happy New Year and Spin on you crazy diamonds!
I use a relatively cheap anti-static record cleaning arm. It connects to the amp earth and then a brush tracks the record. It works 100% to eliminate static for about £25!
I will watch this because I’m always looking for a new gadget, but I’ve eliminated my static pops with a cheap carbon fiber turntable brush on a metal arm from Amazon that I have permanently grounded to my outlet. It took some playing with it to make it work. That plus antistatic sleeves, and sometimes if it’s really dry i place the record flat on an anti-static grounding mat. They come with grounding pins that fit directly into your standard outlet. I even directly ground the grounding pin on the back of the turntable. Any cleaning or wiping at all requires re-grounding. Grounding, grounding, grounding!
Good to know it is there. Thanks. When a pop occurs, is it dirt or static? How to know? Zerostat again and replay and assume a pop in the same music location is then dirt? Do you care? Wash with OkkiNokki, rinse in Humminguru, store, later remove and Zerostat then brush, and when done, clean the stylus. Only a . . . will do this and not mind. So, changing one step is no big deal. The cost at $319 may be another thing, unless a few pops make you clench your teeth or embarrassed you. I had the same thought about it toppling over.
This is a really great video, I really liked it. My niece, a vinyl enthusiast, in her room hardly needs a brush because the static electricity is minimal. In my case, in my basement, a good brush against static electricity really makes a huge difference, at least for me in my environment. Not to the point of buying the kind of object described in your video, but a good anti-static brush should be part of any kit, it is really an essential tool. Happy New Year 2025.
I have several bluray editions of classic albums which include needle drops of prized vinyl pressings of same album, all done on equipment running way beyond my reach. Despite all the hi bitrate sophistication of vinyl transfers, it all falls short. I don't understand why there's a vinyl boom and not a 15 ips reel to reel boom. That would make sense. Jimmy page said it best when asked what's the best sounding led zeppelin. "The original studio tapes" was the immediate reply.
I like Humminguru products and I purchased one of these. It does work but not any better than using my carbon fiber Audiquest brush and plasma lighter. I did end up returning it just because of the time needed to run it for each side (about 2 minutes). The price is also a bit high at $319 in the US. Good review Rick.
Looks good, but the ZeroStat will always be more popular because of the price difference. The time it takes to use it is also a factor. Just like ultrasonic cleaning as opposed to other methods. You are holding the Zerostat too far away from the record. A couple inches away from the record, zap it in 4 places around the record and finish it off with a centered zap about 6 inches away. Oh, and sliding a record in and out of the anti-static storage sleeves charges the records with static electricity, especially in low humidity.
Wonderful lecture, I always follow your demos, and advice. I'm going to get this unique, and new device for the elimination of Pops, and any other noise that cannot be removed first by wet cleaning. However, sometimes it may not be Static Electricity, because what happened to me about the Pops was in the late Summer. I want to add something that I consider about this topic on pops, crackles, and dust that annoys a listening session. My experience, and the eventual solution is unorthodox! I have experienced hearing an ODD, but very possibly TRUE FACTOR about an unusual, enormous popping sound. It is as if it sounded like a miniature atom bomb going off! My solution, to the point, and not get any more convoluted, is that I CHANGED to a NEW Stylus! From my experience. I had a Denon DL-80A Moving Coil cartridge, that was bought used. I had replaced an Audio Technica AT70MM cartridge on my harman kardon T25 semi-automatic belt drive turntable, circa early 1980s. I began to play back one my favourite records from the 1980s of pop, and rock era. Nineteen eighties is one of my favourite times of recorded music. On the Whitney Houston record, 1985 by Arista Records Inc., at the last couple of tracks there are loud pops! Track 3 on Side 2, and a bit on the later tracks toward the end of groove had more than a couple of very loud popping sounds. When I eventually replaced the used DL-80A MC cartridge back to the original Audio Technica AT70 Moving Magnet Cartridge with a new, expensive, and Nude Elliptical Stylus, there was no problem. Strange, but true. Sometimes those annoying pops, a couple very loud as they are, could actually be the result of a very worn Stylus. And yes, I did very carefully align both those cartridges! I cleaned the second side of that Arista Record up to a dozen times! At the very end of the groove, at the dead wax a B & O MMC4 cartridge could be more worn down then was supposed. I bought a used Bang & Olusfen Beogram TX Linear Tracking Belt Drive Turntable a year ago, and had it repaired because it simply did not playback. It attempted to, but went back to its tonearm rest. Seller was dishonest, and deceptive! Anyhow, when an expert, experienced technician repaired the Beogram TX it worked well. However, when the cartridge reaches the end there was this very loud pop. Possible solution, a new cartridge. Also, for B & O cartridge, complete replacement is the only option. Although there are going to be many vinyl, and turntable experts out there who are going to disagree with me, it's what I have experienced, and found as a solution! Anyway, I may eventually buy that HumminGuru device. A couple of lower pops are acceptable, but not a lot.🔈🎵🎶
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords I think a lot of people have :). One big advantage for those of us with suspended sub-chassis turntables is that it came with a base with spindle, so it can be used off the platter.
I'm definitely going to consider buying one of these soon. In my opinion, as vinyl listeners, collectors, we put great time and money into this. As long as a product does what it's intended to do, then it's well worth buying to keep our babies sounding the best they can... After all, our records have given us countless hours of joy listening to them. The least we can do is take the very best care of our records.
I don't have much of a static problem, and a correctly used piezo electric discharge gun works fine for me, being powered only by squeezing the trigger. Respectfully, I wonder if the possibility of a small commission on sales through this site helped the enthusiasm displayed.
The orbit is a nice product i have bought it , and i like it. Good build for it's price. i was impressed with the results of the furutech that i have seen in other reviews. but also with it's price. the furutech is bit better build and takes alot less time indeed. but almost twice the money.
It's $250. I do a wet clean using L'Art du Son cleaning fluid and a Nitty Gritty vacuum RCM. I have no static electricity problems.I generally just clean my records once and place them into a new anti-static sleeve like a MoiFi. Again, no static problems. If the relative humidity gets down to close to 30%, put a tea kettle on.
I'm probably going to get one of these soon. My first ZeroStat gun lasted almost 30 years, but my second one barely past the warranty period. I'm not buying another one. They don't really work all that well, and $100 for something that likely costs $10 to make is just ridiculous. Using this Orbit immediately after the Kirmuss process, might just be the icing on the record restoration cake.
Distilled water in a spray bottle works for me. I wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth. I only need to do this for new records. Then I put them in an anti-static sleeve and never have static again.
Hey, I'm 16 and just getting into vinyl. I really enjoy your videos and find them really helpful. Do you recommend album/record sleeves? If so what type would you recommend?
Welcome to the wonderful world of vinyl! I use these for all of my records - both from Invest-In-Vinyl. Out sleeves: amzn.to/3Pp5ovW and inner sleeves amzn.to/40mjxjy
In case anyone is interested, this device is around $300.00 from Amazon. I'm not sure why prices are usually omitted from these reviews. Also, you did not demo the Orbit on the Thorens TT. Why?
Great video, Rick! An interesting piece of kit for sure… In your video, you talk about a 'cleaning protocol' you have for your records. Do you have a piece on this? If not, it would certainly be interesting.
"Pops and crackles and hiss..." I'm familiar with the ticks and pops that can come from dust and dirt and static electricity on vinyl records. And, of course, I'm acquainted with the rumble and swoosh you can hear in the widely-spaced grooves at the beginning and ending of LPs (or even between tracks, depending on how the pressing was mastered). But when people talk about "hiss" on records, I'm not sure exactly what they're referring to. There's tape hiss from analog recording (hence the invention of Dolby "noise reduction" in the 1960s), but does static electricity itself create audible hiss when you're listening to records on a turntable? If so, do you know what accounts for it? Cleaning records and keeping them stored in anti-static inner sleeves helps a lot (and in the Pacific Northwest we have plenty of rain and generally mild temperatures that keep the air from getting too dry), but I sometimes use a Zerostat, too. Also, I live with a German Shepherd and occasionally have multiple dogs in the house, so I know a lot about dirt and dust and hair and splatter from shaken-off moisture and droplets of saliva and vibrations from lumbering, four-footed heavy beasts cavorting through the halls...
I didn't hear you mention how much it costs and where to buy? I found it sold out on Humminguru site awhile back but am curious if other retailers are now selling this
I'm not a health professional but I can't imagine there would be any. Ion static removal has been in use for decades (some employed a very similar solution to the one used by Humminguru).
Great video Rick. I noticed you had some lint and junk on your record when you were running the device. What do you do after you finish removing the static. Do you use an antistatic brush or do you use a wet system like the disc washer to clean the record. Back in the day, I was led to believe you clean the album's first, disc washer, then zap it with zero stat. This was my routine in the late 70s and 80s 0:04
To be honest the record was a demo I use. In a real situation it would be cleaned first. When I use the Zerostat, I do that first, then place it on the platter and use an anti-static brush
😂true, i use them both. i like physchical media. and both sound differently good. i do stream ,the sound is also good with qobuz, and again a bit different. but the experience of cd and vinyl are better for me. i t works always no computer bugs in apps that get stuck and reboot . push play and enjoy
Hi, Rick! I totally get the Northern state winter thing here in Minnesota...not a pretty sight/sound when it comes to records...not only the dryness creating stat8c but the 5 dogs-worth of shedded fur being a factor in that static... You mentioned something about the variables in conditions dictating the effectiveness of the device...is the Zerostat as touchy? (I see they're getting a lot of mention here...)
One word. Waxwing . This Parks audio phonostage almost eliminates surface noise without affecting, to my ears at least, sound quality. It's not for analog purists as it works in the digital domain, but it has revolutionised my vinyl listening for about $500.
Vinyl's biggest problem is the (hard) stylus sending shock waves through the (soft) groove wall punching out minuscule holes which is what causes clicks and pops in the first place.
I own the first generation HumminGuru & even though it's totally awesome & does what it should, it's WAY over priced! And so is this thing! I'll just stick with my Zerostat.
Back in the 80's? I bought an electronic pop crackle filter unit ( an expensive thing even then ). Thought it was going to be the solution to the annoying noises. NO.......Introduced a weird effect when adjusted to hide scratches etc. Very disappointed I returned it for a refund. Ended up buying cassettes of recordings so no more crackles etc. Now I just stick to CDs and yes......I know Vinyl purists will say Vinyl sounds better....maybe so.....just can't suffer all those noises anymore.
Hoped I could see actual measurement numbers of static before and after. They do have RUclips ads but wanted to see a third party measurement too. This is $$$ item.
One thing you didn't mention is if you think it is worth about three times the price of a Zerostat Gun. Would like to know your opinion, great video, Thanks!
I always recommend the Zerostat. This does a slightly better job but I also get that the extra cost isn't justifiable for a lot of folks (myself included).
I have zero static zero static with my LPs audio file and general good recordings zero static and can use a moving coil or my moving magnet. I have 00 static so it’s somewhere in your system. I do have a Rea Turn table with a separate power supply that definitely helpswhen I’m quiet quiet quiet good luck guys.
For 60 years ive just played played my records after occasionally gving them a wipe. I own thousands of often pretty valuable discs. Just use your brain and take some care. 😂
For starters. You are using the Zerostat all wrong. You hold the record in your hand, one sloooow squeeze (Full In and out squeeze) in each of the 3 quadrants around the record, the one final squeeze in on the center and let go of the trigger while pointing away from the record. I have 4 different Zerostats and also find the blue ones are totally useless. Only the red ones work. The older the better too. Cheers.
Loaners are almost always sent. In this case, HG sent two, so now I'm waiting to hear what they want done. Expect they'll ship a label to forward for future reviewers.
I think a brush takes less than 50% of the static away. There were some test I’ve heard that said that the Milty Zerostat takes away about 80% (on a good day), and if the Humminguru takes even close to 100% it might be great if you have a problem with too much static electricity.
The zerostat is great as well. The anti static brush doesn't remove static unfortunately - what it does is mitigate the introduction of more static by dragging it across the record.
If this gets so ugly why listen to vinyl at all. If anything, it's more about aestethics that anything else. If this gets so ugly I'd rather pop a CD in (if I still want to be tactile about it) or go full digital.
It's £259 in the U.K. the zerostats £54. I think I will just stick to looking like a twat shooting my records with a toy gun that looks like it's doing nothing for that price.
😂 Made me laugh, Andrew. The zerostat is an excellent device and I use mine all the time. I'm sure my wife watches me and thinks "what did I marry?".....
180G records are a joke and a waste of plastic. I hear/see more defects on these than their 140G brothers. I have to stop this youtube craziness of cleaning and static. The Milty Zerostat is a very good work-around. SLOWLY squeeze and slowly release ...4X ??? It works. I'll keep a sheet of toilet paper hanging in my audio studio for checks.
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I bought the Orbit from their official website and I can tell that the sound quality has greatly increased after using the Orbit. It is much better than my static gun that I bought before.
I’m pretty happy with the Furutech - DeStat III. It’s pretty expensive but it only takes 15 seconds (or 30 if I have to hit both sides). It does work great though. To me it was worth the money.
That one has come up a lot. I might see if they'll loan one for a review.
I also have it. Works great.
It's not that much.
I just stick a dryer sheet on the TT and it works like a charm.
how does one use dryer sheet on the TT I want to try this
@ Sure. I don’t like to use new sheets without drying first. So save a few from your laundry. Pierce a small hole in the center and place on your platter with the spindle in the hole. Then, place your record on top and play. Replace every dozen or so times you listen. If you’re skeptical, take the record and see if toilet paper or tissue will be attracted to the record. If so, rub the dryer sheet on the record and repeat the experiment.
@@EvanCasteel-th2qs Ill try that thanks
That's interesting but aren't those sheets rough and got perfumed chemicals in them?
@@dumpwoodhere Yep, sure do. That’s why I like to wash mine first. That’s unless you would like to have the smell. There are worse things.
Maybe you should find a way to do a comparison between this and the zero stat to see if it is worth the price difference. Also, maybe do a video with a rundown of all the essential accessories and a running tab of the total cost of all these accessories. There can be quite an added cost when you add up all the essential accessories. Some accessories aren't necessarily essential, but there are several that you really need to have at a minimum.
I got a Zerostat 3 about a week ago, on your recommendation. Works perfectly. It is the last, I mean the last, bit of gear I'm going to get. (Yeah. Right Stanley...) Have a good Sunday.
Hi Stanley - love the zerostat!
I've owned my Zerostat "gun" for probably four decades. I've used it for more than just records. It works well on photographic negatives, Styrofoam (or its similar looking cousin, extruded polystyrene foam) and just about anything I've encountered that's loaded with static electricity (like clothing).
To me, in this day of CDs, DVD's and streaming, all of these means to prepare a record seems old and annoying. Younger folks may enjoy this ritual, as it's something new to them, but at 68 years of age and having routinely spun records since I was 2 years of age (no exaggeration), going through the motions reminds me of the same rituals people had to go through to start their cars, by inserting a handle at the front of their vehicles and crankin' the crap out of it to start the engines.
For the most part, record playing barely comprises 10% of my playing time. I'm almost addicted to surround sound albums, and properly mastered CDs. I can still remember all of the horrible pressings in my record collection, and only a handful of really decent ones.
Just like some people like making pasta or salad dressing from scratch, I prefer to just have a lot of that effort removed, and get down to eating a meal ASAP. To each their own, but it's weird seeing "audiophiles" who will pay insane prices for toys that not only empties their pocketbooks but also highlight the real limitations and flaws in analog music playback mediums.
I also live in New England, I run 2 air purifiers and still get dust particles just walking my record over to the turntable to play after cleaning. Finally picked up the Furutech Destat III (broke open the piggy bank) a month ago and man that thing works Amazing. I like that I can replace the batteries in it. I'm not crazy about built in rechargeable batteries.
I might see if I can get my hands on a Destat
we think alike. anything rechargeable will eventually become landfill trash, adding to toxic pollution, once the batteries wear out
If you have an air cleaner with an ionizer function, holding the record vertically in front of the air path for about 20 seconds actually works pretty well in my experience.
If you understand electronics, it is very easy to make an air ionizer yourself. I made it for myself about six months ago and have been using it with great success. I really liked the idea of rotating the device on the record. I need to think about how to implement this in my device. Thank you.
I wish I did understand electronics - I would have so many projects....
Good demo, how to acquire and how much?
@@maximotadlas1316 Amazon did have them for around $300 a month ago. I haven't checked recently.
Thanks for posting - I have and love the Humminguru Nova and appreciated your review of that device. Strongly looking at one of these, and your calm, thorough, and fact-filled review helps so much! I did break down and order a static meter first to make sure that purchasing the Orbit will solve a real problem.
Would love to hear your results! (Also wouldn't mind knowing what static meter you purchased).
@@TheJoyofVinylRecordsI got the NEWTRY 003 off of Amazon - will be happy to report back mid-week. I don’t mind paying for the Orbit IF the meter shows measurable static. It’s just hard when you can’t “see” the static and some of the noise could be from other sources. I just upgraded to the Humminguru Nova from Spin-Clean - the audible difference is significant, but I do miss being able to admire the glass of filthy water at the end of a Spin Clean session!!!
@@TheJoyofVinylRecordshere’s what I found in my carpeted listening space in Nashville TN - sure enough, there is static on my vinyl before washing - avg .2kv. That drops to 0 after washing in Humminguru. There is static generated by stylus on vinyl, again avg .2kv. There’s also static after re-sleeving in MoFi sleeves, also avg .2kv. Interestingly, static drops to 0 after use of anti-static brush -
Back in the 70's and 80's there was a company that made a anit-static mat. I purchased on and it works great..I've been using it for over 40 years..
That's really cool. Do you happen to know the brand.
They still make them. They advertise them for health benefits (sleep on them, stand on them, whatever). I bought a couple. I tested their conductance and they do, surprisingly, pass a charge. I bought mine on Amazon.
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords , I think mine was from Discwasher.
I just had a flashback to Dolby noise reduction. I'm reminded why even with the flaws of early CDs, I was happy to let vinyl go in 1983.
Have you try out Furutech Destat III?
I think it would be even better than HumminGuru Orbit though it's hand held and not automatic but atleast it won't take you over minute to remove static.
Also you don't have to clean the device itself afterwards.
I have one if them and it’s been experience-changing. In the desert, the static builds up quite a bit. I also like that the batteries can be replaced.
I was thinking the same thing. I have the Furutech and it is much faster and less cumbersome.
I may try to get the Furutech loaner to test
It's the only way to go.
Thanks for the review! Anyone out there tried the Furutech Destat? It currently sells for 370 US$ on Amazon. A bit more expensive than the Humminguru, but not a lot. It is supposed to be a bit quicker in action than the 1.5 min the Humminguru takes.
Yes, I have both. The Destat is so much quicker and better that for me it's a no-brainer. It's quicker than that HumminGuru contraption and you can use it on other things besides records. Not cheap but worth it to me.
Note: One caveat is that it takes two AA batteries, and I've found it has to be 1.5V alkaline. I tried NiMH rechargeables but they are 1.4V and won't work.
I also use the Furutech DeStat III. Works great and you can also use it for cables and speaker terminals.
Furtech here, haven't used anything better.
@@chrislj2890 Thanks! Just what I wanted to know. I think I might go for the Destat III. 👍🏻
@@Vinyl-Go-Pilates_Reiner That is gold! 👍🏻 🙏🏻 Thanks!
Thanks for the great video! I have the Fluance RT85 and by the looks of this, it would probably bump into the raised dust cover.
I'm not sure it is worth the huge price difference though. I mean, if the Zerostat can get lets say 80-90 percent of the way, is it worth another $200 to get close to 100%?
I will always highly recommend the Zerostat
The Humminguru and Furtech devices get to the same level as a Zerostat or Thunderon brush. All of those options get it done. The only difference is how much one is willing to pay for extreme convenience or laziness, which usually comes with more caveats anyway. Example, the Zerostat, Thunderon brush and Furtech take seconds to do the job, while the Humminguru device takes minutes. The Humminguru device is used while the record is on the turntable, while the Zerostat, Thunderon and Furtech devices are used with the record off the table. (Although those can be used while the record is on the table, they are far more effective with the record off the table).
I use the Zerostat and Thunderon brush myself and both have gotten me 99% of the way. (One to two squeezes of the Zerostat or two swipes of the thunderon brush). *Note: Thunderon is not a brand, but a material. One can find appropriate thunderon brushes on amazon, I know SleeveCity carries one and can be found at lab or science supply houses.
I use an electric candle lighter! It’s cheap and works great for removing static!
Yes! I use the RONXS lighter (9.99 on Azm). I have a length of parchment paper hanging near TT. If the paper gets attracted to the LP I run the wand around it once or twice and POOF its gone. Ronxs was the best money spent since the VinylVac and the Vevor ultrasonic.
Happy New Year and Spin on you crazy diamonds!
@@gregoryhausinger1114, I use the same thing, but I just routinely do it before the play of all album sides.
I use a relatively cheap anti-static record cleaning arm. It connects to the amp earth and then a brush tracks the record. It works 100% to eliminate static for about £25!
I will watch this because I’m always looking for a new gadget, but I’ve eliminated my static pops with a cheap carbon fiber turntable brush on a metal arm from Amazon that I have permanently grounded to my outlet. It took some playing with it to make it work. That plus antistatic sleeves, and sometimes if it’s really dry i place the record flat on an anti-static grounding mat. They come with grounding pins that fit directly into your standard outlet. I even directly ground the grounding pin on the back of the turntable. Any cleaning or wiping at all requires re-grounding. Grounding, grounding, grounding!
Good to know it is there. Thanks.
When a pop occurs, is it dirt or static? How to know? Zerostat again and replay and assume a pop in the same music location is then dirt? Do you care?
Wash with OkkiNokki, rinse in Humminguru, store, later remove and Zerostat then brush, and when done, clean the stylus. Only a . . . will do this and not mind. So, changing one step is no big deal. The cost at $319 may be another thing, unless a few pops make you clench your teeth or embarrassed you.
I had the same thought about it toppling over.
This is a really great video, I really liked it. My niece, a vinyl enthusiast, in her room hardly needs a brush because the static electricity is minimal. In my case, in my basement, a good brush against static electricity really makes a huge difference, at least for me in my environment. Not to the point of buying the kind of object described in your video, but a good anti-static brush should be part of any kit, it is really an essential tool. Happy New Year 2025.
I completely agree, Pierre! It's essential. I always advise, if nothing else then at least get an anti-static brush.
I have several bluray editions of classic albums which include needle drops of prized vinyl pressings of same album, all done on equipment running way beyond my reach. Despite all the hi bitrate sophistication of vinyl transfers, it all falls short. I don't understand why there's a vinyl boom and not a 15 ips reel to reel boom. That would make sense. Jimmy page said it best when asked what's the best sounding led zeppelin. "The original studio tapes" was the immediate reply.
One of these days I'm going to invest in a reel-to-reel player.
I like Humminguru products and I purchased one of these. It does work but not any better than using my carbon fiber Audiquest brush and plasma lighter. I did end up returning it just because of the time needed to run it for each side (about 2 minutes). The price is also a bit high at $319 in the US. Good review Rick.
I really need to try the plasma lighter.
Would love a video on it!@@TheJoyofVinylRecords
Looks good, but the ZeroStat will always be more popular because of the price difference. The time it takes to use it is also a factor. Just like ultrasonic cleaning as opposed to other methods. You are holding the Zerostat too far away from the record. A couple inches away from the record, zap it in 4 places around the record and finish it off with a centered zap about 6 inches away. Oh, and sliding a record in and out of the anti-static storage sleeves charges the records with static electricity, especially in low humidity.
Wonderful lecture, I always follow your demos, and advice. I'm going to get this unique, and new device for the elimination of Pops, and any other noise that cannot be removed first by wet cleaning.
However, sometimes it may not be Static Electricity, because what happened to me about the Pops was in the late Summer. I want to add something that I consider about this topic on pops, crackles, and dust that annoys a listening session. My experience, and the eventual solution is unorthodox!
I have experienced hearing an ODD, but very possibly TRUE FACTOR about an unusual, enormous popping sound. It is as if it sounded like a miniature atom bomb going off! My solution, to the point, and not get any more convoluted, is that I CHANGED to a NEW Stylus!
From my experience. I had a Denon DL-80A Moving Coil cartridge, that was bought used. I had replaced an Audio Technica AT70MM cartridge on my harman kardon T25 semi-automatic belt drive turntable, circa early 1980s. I began to play back one my favourite records from the 1980s of pop, and rock era. Nineteen eighties is one of my favourite times of recorded music. On the Whitney Houston record, 1985 by Arista Records Inc., at the last couple of tracks there are loud pops! Track 3 on Side 2, and a bit on the later tracks toward the end of groove had more than a couple of very loud popping sounds.
When I eventually replaced the used DL-80A MC cartridge back to the original Audio Technica AT70 Moving Magnet Cartridge with a new, expensive, and Nude Elliptical Stylus, there was no problem. Strange, but true. Sometimes those annoying pops, a couple very loud as they are, could actually be the result of a very worn Stylus. And yes, I did very carefully align both those cartridges! I cleaned the second side of that Arista Record up to a dozen times!
At the very end of the groove, at the dead wax a B & O MMC4 cartridge could be more worn down then was supposed. I bought a used Bang & Olusfen Beogram TX Linear Tracking Belt Drive Turntable a year ago, and had it repaired because it simply did not playback. It attempted to, but went back to its tonearm rest. Seller was dishonest, and deceptive!
Anyhow, when an expert, experienced technician repaired the Beogram TX it worked well. However, when the cartridge reaches the end there was this very loud pop. Possible solution, a new cartridge. Also, for B & O cartridge, complete replacement is the only option.
Although there are going to be many vinyl, and turntable experts out there who are going to disagree with me, it's what I have experienced, and found as a solution!
Anyway, I may eventually buy that HumminGuru device. A couple of lower pops are acceptable, but not a lot.🔈🎵🎶
That's really good information, George. Learn something new every day - which is one of the reasons I love doing this. Cheers! 🍻
Hey Rick. Fantastic review I’ll take 2 🍺🍺. No static here , my wife stays upstairs 😊.
Have a great new year.
😂😂😂
Remember the Maxell Staticlean from the 80's? Very similar opertion, I still use mine.
I completely forgot about that!
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords I think a lot of people have :). One big advantage for those of us with suspended sub-chassis turntables is that it came with a base with spindle, so it can be used off the platter.
Remember the Burwen TNE and DNF ? Properly adjusted, they were pretty darn good.
I'd seen them on the used market but never tried one.
I'm definitely going to consider buying one of these soon. In my opinion, as vinyl listeners, collectors, we put great time and money into this. As long as a product does what it's intended to do, then it's well worth buying to keep our babies sounding the best they can... After all, our records have given us countless hours of joy listening to them. The least we can do is take the very best care of our records.
Cheers 🎶
interesting gadget, very cool, thanks for the video, Furutech Destat III 😉
I don't have much of a static problem, and a correctly used piezo electric discharge gun works fine for me, being powered only by squeezing the trigger. Respectfully, I wonder if the possibility of a small commission on sales through this site helped the enthusiasm displayed.
The orbit is a nice product i have bought it , and i like it. Good build for it's price. i was impressed with the results of the furutech that i have seen in other reviews. but also with it's price. the furutech is bit better build and takes alot less time indeed. but almost twice the money.
It's $250. I do a wet clean using L'Art du Son cleaning fluid and a Nitty Gritty vacuum RCM. I have no static electricity problems.I generally just clean my records once and place them into a new anti-static sleeve like a MoiFi. Again, no static problems. If the relative humidity gets down to close to 30%, put a tea kettle on.
I'm probably going to get one of these soon. My first ZeroStat gun lasted almost 30 years, but my second one barely past the warranty period. I'm not buying another one. They don't really work all that well, and $100 for something that likely costs $10 to make is just ridiculous. Using this Orbit immediately after the Kirmuss process, might just be the icing on the record restoration cake.
That's going to be my plan - to use it after cleaning.
Distilled water in a spray bottle works for me. I wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth. I only need to do this for new records. Then I put them in an anti-static sleeve and never have static again.
Hey, I'm 16 and just getting into vinyl. I really enjoy your videos and find them really helpful. Do you recommend album/record sleeves? If so what type would you recommend?
Welcome to the wonderful world of vinyl! I use these for all of my records - both from Invest-In-Vinyl. Out sleeves: amzn.to/3Pp5ovW and inner sleeves amzn.to/40mjxjy
@4:16 -- TP is like 8-track cassettes.
I use ShopRite's moisturized wipes. ;-)
In case anyone is interested, this device is around $300.00 from Amazon. I'm not sure why prices are usually omitted from these reviews. Also, you did not demo the Orbit on the Thorens TT. Why?
I've used it on the Thorens, but no reason it wasn't demoed. Just didn't think of it
Great video, Rick! An interesting piece of kit for sure… In your video, you talk about a 'cleaning protocol' you have for your records. Do you have a piece on this? If not, it would certainly be interesting.
I don't think I've produced a video on how I do it now. If you want to - happy to share. Just send me an email.
"Pops and crackles and hiss..." I'm familiar with the ticks and pops that can come from dust and dirt and static electricity on vinyl records. And, of course, I'm acquainted with the rumble and swoosh you can hear in the widely-spaced grooves at the beginning and ending of LPs (or even between tracks, depending on how the pressing was mastered). But when people talk about "hiss" on records, I'm not sure exactly what they're referring to. There's tape hiss from analog recording (hence the invention of Dolby "noise reduction" in the 1960s), but does static electricity itself create audible hiss when you're listening to records on a turntable? If so, do you know what accounts for it?
Cleaning records and keeping them stored in anti-static inner sleeves helps a lot (and in the Pacific Northwest we have plenty of rain and generally mild temperatures that keep the air from getting too dry), but I sometimes use a Zerostat, too. Also, I live with a German Shepherd and occasionally have multiple dogs in the house, so I know a lot about dirt and dust and hair and splatter from shaken-off moisture and droplets of saliva and vibrations from lumbering, four-footed heavy beasts cavorting through the halls...
The hiss, at least in my experience, happens when a groove is exceptionally dirty. Cheers! 🍺
No, but a CD player can.
I didn't hear you mention how much it costs and where to buy? I found it sold out on Humminguru site awhile back but am curious if other retailers are now selling this
It was about $300 when I received it last month. I saw it on Amazon but not sure what the stock is.
Looks like an interesting product, but I missed the price?
I’ve seen tired at different price points. This was around $300 (a month ago)
@TheJoyofVinylRecords thanks for the info 👍
What is the cost?
Currently $319.00 on Amazon
The zerostat type of guns work perfectly fine, and have have been around forever. Easiest to use imo.
Happy holidays Rick. Does one treatment do both sides?
Unfortunately not. Wish it did though!
Are there any health consequences if you stand next to this thing? Lol. Looks cool. I wants one.
I'm not a health professional but I can't imagine there would be any. Ion static removal has been in use for decades (some employed a very similar solution to the one used by Humminguru).
Awesome 💡 idea
Great video Rick. I noticed you had some lint and junk on your record when you were running the device. What do you do after you finish removing the static. Do you use an antistatic brush or do you use a wet system like the disc washer to clean the record. Back in the day, I was led to believe you clean the album's first, disc washer, then zap it with zero stat. This was my routine in the late 70s and 80s 0:04
To be honest the record was a demo I use. In a real situation it would be cleaned first. When I use the Zerostat, I do that first, then place it on the platter and use an anti-static brush
@TheJoyofVinylRecords thanks for your info
A CD player will also eliminate static from the recording
😂true, i use them both. i like physchical media. and both sound differently good. i do stream ,the sound is also good with qobuz, and again a bit different. but the experience of cd and vinyl are better for me. i t works always no computer bugs in apps that get stuck and reboot . push play and enjoy
😂
Boo! 😂😂
Mouaahahaha!😂
What’s the audible difference?
Pretty much the same as any anti-static solution - a reduction in pops
Hi, Rick! I totally get the Northern state winter thing here in Minnesota...not a pretty sight/sound when it comes to records...not only the dryness creating stat8c but the 5 dogs-worth of shedded fur being a factor in that static...
You mentioned something about the variables in conditions dictating the effectiveness of the device...is the Zerostat as touchy? (I see they're getting a lot of mention here...)
No - the zerostat is a great device. I really recommend it as well.
I live in the sub tropics on the coast, i don't know what dry static is
One word. Waxwing . This Parks audio phonostage almost eliminates surface noise without affecting, to my ears at least, sound quality. It's not for analog purists as it works in the digital domain, but it has revolutionised my vinyl listening for about $500.
The waxwing is a great device, Jim. reviewed it here a few months back.
I just purchased a DS Audio ION-001 Vinyl Ionizer at around $3K Australian not cheap but very affective.
Wow - that's very cool - never heard of it.
I thought they'd have that sitting beside the album and hanging over it. Then no need for a motor, just playing of the album would do the trick 🤷♂️😉
I have a technic record player hanging from the ceeling, and never have any problems with static
Vinyl's biggest problem is the (hard) stylus sending shock waves through the (soft) groove wall punching out minuscule holes which is what causes clicks and pops in the first place.
I own the first generation HumminGuru & even though it's totally awesome & does what it should, it's WAY over priced! And so is this thing! I'll just stick with my Zerostat.
If you haven't already, could you do a video on power conditioners?
I'd like to. I have one in place. I could do a more generalized take on why I use one instead of a review.
@TheJoyofVinylRecords That's fine. I got one too, and I'd like your reaction. Happy New Year's.
Back in the 80's? I bought an electronic pop crackle filter unit ( an expensive thing even then ). Thought it was going to be the solution to the annoying noises. NO.......Introduced a weird effect when adjusted to hide scratches etc. Very disappointed I returned it for a refund.
Ended up buying cassettes of recordings so no more crackles etc. Now I just stick to CDs and yes......I know Vinyl purists will say Vinyl sounds better....maybe so.....just can't suffer all those noises anymore.
I would be concerned about the device rotating close to the stylus
I was too. No issues when I tried it on a couple turntables.
Just use a proper RCM and never vipe the records with anyting, and make sure the player has centre tap grounded.
I rely on my ORGINAL zerostat from the 70s
Hoped I could see actual measurement numbers of static before and after. They do have RUclips ads but wanted to see a third party measurement too. This is $$$ item.
Hard to beat a Zerostat 3.
One thing you didn't mention is if you think it is worth about three times the price of a Zerostat Gun. Would like to know your opinion, great video, Thanks!
Looks cool, but in Canada it goes for $439 on amazon. Ouch!
I always recommend the Zerostat. This does a slightly better job but I also get that the extra cost isn't justifiable for a lot of folks (myself included).
@@TheJoyofVinylRecordsThanks very much!
I have zero static zero static with my LPs audio file and general good recordings zero static and can use a moving coil or my moving magnet. I have 00 static so it’s somewhere in your system. I do have a Rea Turn table with a separate power supply that definitely helpswhen I’m quiet quiet quiet good luck guys.
For 60 years ive just played played my records after occasionally gving them a wipe. I own thousands of often pretty valuable discs. Just use your brain and take some care. 😂
Honestly, I can't believe what people are willing to pay for vinyl gear!
For starters. You are using the Zerostat all wrong. You hold the record in your hand, one sloooow squeeze (Full In and out squeeze) in each of the 3 quadrants around the record, the one final squeeze in on the center and let go of the trigger while pointing away from the record. I have 4 different Zerostats and also find the blue ones are totally useless. Only the red ones work. The older the better too. Cheers.
lol - actually was a slow squeeze - old video at 4x speed
Well, that'll be a hard pass for its $319 list price. 😐🤑 I'll just keep using my Zerostat gun. 🙃
Or............
Get a humidifier in the room.
$319?. That's a hard pass.
10 rotations, a minute and a half?..lol, no thanks, I'll be using my zerostat
With all the bad press influencers are getting why aren't you telling us if this was given to you or you paid for it with your own money?
Loaners are almost always sent. In this case, HG sent two, so now I'm waiting to hear what they want done. Expect they'll ship a label to forward for future reviewers.
Certainly an interesting product, but at over $300 it’s way too expensive for most. The Zerostat is much more affordable, if less effective.
Highly recommend the Zerostat
Static is worse for me after I’ve played the record
Please don’t put an anti-static device on my turntable. The turntable doesn’t respond well to it.
or, and hear me out, use an anti static brush
I think a brush takes less than 50% of the static away. There were some test I’ve heard that said that the Milty Zerostat takes away about 80% (on a good day), and if the Humminguru takes even close to 100% it might be great if you have a problem with too much static electricity.
The zerostat is great as well. The anti static brush doesn't remove static unfortunately - what it does is mitigate the introduction of more static by dragging it across the record.
If this gets so ugly why listen to vinyl at all. If anything, it's more about aestethics that anything else. If this gets so ugly I'd rather pop a CD in (if I still want to be tactile about it) or go full digital.
I can't believe you called me ugly 😩
Basically degaussing the record.
Don't buy LP's if you don't like the sound easy fix. If you want it digital just download stuff.
It's £259 in the U.K. the zerostats £54.
I think I will just stick to looking like a twat shooting my records with a toy gun that looks like it's doing nothing for that price.
😂 Made me laugh, Andrew. The zerostat is an excellent device and I use mine all the time. I'm sure my wife watches me and thinks "what did I marry?".....
😢❤😢1😢❤🎉
Cool, but not for me
Yet another overpriced gizmo in the constant parade of overpriced gizmos.
$300. gtfo
1❤1
180G records are a joke and a waste of plastic. I hear/see more defects on these than their 140G brothers. I have to stop this youtube craziness of cleaning and static. The Milty Zerostat is a very good work-around. SLOWLY squeeze and slowly release ...4X ??? It works. I'll keep a sheet of toilet paper hanging in my audio studio for checks.