AudioZomba Precision Sonic Ultra-Sonic Stylus Cleaner & 10ml Stylus Fluid

The AudioZomba™ Ultra-Sonic stylus cleaner is a vibratory needle cleaner which transmits a high frequency through fluid to remove dirt from the stylus tip for pristine audio playback.

Vibratory stylus cleaners date back to the 1970s. AudioZomba™ has revived this technology with their Ultra-Sonic Electronic Stylus Cleaner. It uses high frequency, transmitted by a liquid that peels the soils off the needle.
These devices disappeared from the market with the rise of CDs, and were a higher frequency which could impact the integrity of the stylus/cantilever.  AudioZomba’s newly developed product is a lower range frequency and is an essential asset for vinyl enthusiasts everywhere with safe outstanding results.

The Cleaning Process

The scanning stylus is the primary component during playback with an aim to follow the groove precisely in the micrometre range. Pickup manufacturers make great efforts to achieve this accuracy. However if the stylus is contaminated, it cannot exactly follow the deflection no matter how refined the stylus profile is. It will react too early or too late creating distortions.

Even supposedly clean records are covered with dust, partly visible and partly invisible in the groove. It contains particles of silicates, polymers and organic substances. These stick to the stylus due to the high temperature during the scanning process.

The Technology

The principle is similar to an ultrasonic dental cleaner or an ultrasonic bath for spectacle lenses. A strong high-frequency vibration ensures cleaning of the surfaces. However in some substances, damage is caused by this treatment as well as the use of aggressive liquid cleaners. The AudioZomba Vibration Cleaner works with a lower targeted frequency for safe effective cleaning.

The circuit and mechanics are designed so a 3D vibration acts on the stylus to ensure any dirt particles are removed. The frequency is precisely matched preventing damage to the adhesive or suspension with optimum cleaning results. The deflections lie far from the values of the actual scanning so the movement of the needle corresponds only to a fraction of the load on the playback process.

AudioZomba Sonic-optimised Stylus Flux Fluid

A liquid is necessary to transfer vibration from device to stylus and this has an additional, gentle cleaning effect. After use, it volatilizes without residue. AudioZomba Stylus Fluid Flux is applied to a specially developed pad of the finest capillary-effect PE fibres. When combined these transmit the vibration while simultaneously absorbing dirt. Use occasionally for stubborn build up.

The Result!

The cleaning process lasts only 5 seconds but gives optimal results. For very stubborn deposits it can be safely repeated where deemed necessary. The capability of the pickup system is improved and the life of the stylus is increased by less abrasion. Scanning noise is significantly reduced with both distortions and minor noise largely being removed. Unpleasant peaks are gone and the range of frequencies seems to be extended, especially in the bass and treble range. Playback is much more dynamic and enjoyable.