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  1. Has anyone used a video head cleaner for their vcr? If so, is there a specific brand that does it best?

    Some people recommend removing the lid and cleaning it with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol, but the high-end vcr I have doesn't allow it.

    And while we're on the subject, what about cleaners for vhs tapes like this one?
    https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/319462-REG/Kinyo_UV230C_UV_230C_2_Way_VHS_S_VHS_Tape.html

    Would something like this be recommended?
    Last edited by jealousy91; 21st Nov 2022 at 07:46.
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  2. Video Restorer lordsmurf's Avatar
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    Do not use "cleaners" for VCRs. Those just push dirt around. Actual removal, actual cleaning, requires opening, using proper swabs (NOT Q-TIPS!), and 91%+ isopropyl alcohol.

    Do not clean tapes unless required. Most tapes do not need it.

    That rewinder/"cleaner" at B&H is BS. It's just a rewinder.

    An example of an actual cleaner is the RTI Tapechek.
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  3. Originally Posted by lordsmurf View Post
    Do not use "cleaners" for VCRs. Those just push dirt around. Actual removal, actual cleaning, requires opening, using proper swabs (NOT Q-TIPS!), and 91%+ isopropyl alcohol.
    Something like this?
    https://kicteam.com/product/6in-cleaning-swab-for-electronics-with-99-ipa/
    Last edited by jealousy91; 21st Nov 2022 at 10:28.
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    I had that Kinyo, I used it successfully on a half dozen tapes but you had to keep an eye on it, the automatic eject was prone to launching the tape across the table. Now I use a hard to find Geneva.
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  5. Originally Posted by lordsmurf View Post
    An example of an actual cleaner is the RTI Tapechek.
    I see that the RTI Tapechek 490 goes for about $5,000. Is there a legit service that uses this model for their cleaning?
    Last edited by jealousy91; 21st Nov 2022 at 17:00.
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  6. Video Restorer lordsmurf's Avatar
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    Originally Posted by jealousy91 View Post
    Originally Posted by lordsmurf View Post
    An example of an actual cleaner is the RTI Tapechek.
    I see that the RTI Tapechek 490 goes for about $5,000. Is there a legit service that uses this model for their cleaning?
    I'm sure SpecBros does, they specialize in serious damage like floods and fires.
    Studios, TV stations, etc.
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