VPI HW-17 record cleaner. Very good condition and everything functioning as it should. The cosmetic condition is also very good and it comes with manual, spare vacuum wand, and power cable.
Does a very good job of cleaning LPs and the reverve rotation function helps to provide a more thorough clean combined with the powerfull vacuum.
Retailed when new for approximately $1800US.
Some of the key features of the VPI HW-17 are as follows:
-Self-contained powerful liquid pump.
-Stainless steel holding and catch basins.
-Applies liquid and scrubs record at the same time.
-Light touch pushbutton controls.
-Self adjusting velvet coated vacuum nozzle for quick deep cleaning.
-1 BRPM high torque turntable motor allows you to apply special cleaners and preservatives easily.
-Works from top of record so you can see what you're doing.
-Scrubs record in forward and reverse mode for deeper, more thorough cleaning.
Shipping is included at my asking price.
Further from the internet:
With the HW-17 record cleaning machine and its unprecedented cleaning power, your album collection will sound better than it ever has before. With proper cleaning, your records will last longer, and it will reduce wear to your expensive needle. A record that may appear perfectly clean to the eye can contain a buildup of debris deep in the grooves. Even a brand new record contains debris from the manufacturing process which will be removed by the HW-17. The fan cooled HW-17 is built for hours of continuous use and is ideal for large record collections. With its high-torque, 18 RPM turntable motor and its high-power vacuum. The HW-17 features automatic cleaning fluid application, a self-aligning vacuum suction tube for accurate cleaning, and the HW-17's high-power vacuum ensures quick, deep cleaning. It also features a bi-directional motor, which will allow albums to be cleaned in both directions, so debris that is unable to be removed from cleaning in one direction, can be removed by cleaning in the other direction. The HW-17 features a marine grade plywood chassis for long life and durability.
The item being advertised is sold "as is", and no warranty should be assumed unless otherwise indicated and agreed between the Buyer and the Seller. Photos representing the item being advertised form part of the description unless otherwise specified.
### Sound Quality
- Records emerge visually shiny and clean, with claims of unprecedented groove-deep cleaning that reduces pops/clicks, extends record life, and minimizes stylus wear—even on new LPs with manufacturing debris.
- Results vary: Some users report no audible improvement or even slightly worse sound, attributing this to ineffective fluids rather than the machine itself; optimal outcomes require specialized solutions (e.g., from AIVS) and multiple pure-water rinses with vacuuming.
- Bi-directional motor and high-power vacuum enable thorough debris removal in both directions.
### Build Quality
- Features a durable marine-grade plywood chassis, fan-cooled design for continuous use, high-torque 18 RPM motor, automatic fluid application, self-aligning vacuum tube with velour brushes, and spring-loaded mechanisms for easy operation.
- Users describe it as solidly built with few downsides after decades of vinyl experience.
### Reliability
- Proven for hours of heavy use in record libraries and radio stations; one owner replaced the vacuum motor in 2017 successfully via authorized service.
- Potential issues include mold growth in stored VPI cleaning solution (prompting users to switch fluids) and occasional part replacements like the vacuum motor.
### Strengths
- Exceptional cleaning power and speed for dirty records, both sides quickly.
- User-friendly operation: Simple platter clamping, brush snapping into place, even fluid distribution, and automatic vacuum engagement.
- High reputation as "the standard" and "most copied" RCM.
### Weaknesses
- Sound benefits depend heavily on cleaning fluids and technique; VPI solution prone to mold.
- Requires internal cleaning/maintenance and fluid experimentation for best results.
- Noisy vacuum and bulky for small spaces (e.g., demoed in a kitchen).
### Overall Reputation
Widely regarded as one of the best RCMs for serious collectors, with strong endorsements for performance and longevity, tempered by advice to pair with quality fluids.
### Price Range Breakdown by Condition
| Condition | Typical AUD Range | Key Examples |
|-----------|-------------------|--------------|
| New | $2,400–$2,800 | USD 1,799 retail (≈$2,700 AUD); recent brand new listing with accessories. |
| Used/Excellent | $1,500–$1,800 | USD 1,200 sale (≈$1,800 AUD, 2017 but indicative); like-new with minimal use. |
| Used/Good (minor blemishes) | $900–$1,500 | USD 575–649 discounted (≈$860–$975 AUD); vintage with light wear. |
Prices vary significantly by condition (new commands 50–100% premium over used), accessories (e.g., cleaning solution, feet, 10" vinyl kits add $200–$300), and location/shipping (Australian Reverb listings align with global trends but may incur import duties). Older models (pre-2010) trade lower due to potential wear on the vacuum motor or plywood chassis, while demand remains strong for its bi-directional platter and high-torque motor in audiophile markets. Limited recent Australian-specific data suggests monitoring sites like HifiShark for local variance.
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