The Pro-Ject VC-E2 is Pro-Ject's compact entry-level vacuum record cleaning machine, sitting below the larger VC-S3 in the Pro-Ject cleaning range. It is designed for vinyl enthusiasts who want effective wet cleaning without the footprint or cost of a full-size machine.
Why Wet Cleaning Matters
Dry brushing before play removes surface dust but cannot reach contaminants lodged in the groove walls. Wet cleaning, using a suitable fluid and vacuum extraction, draws out embedded particles and restores groove clarity. The VC-E2 is designed around this principle: apply cleaning fluid, spread it with the brush arm, and vacuum it off in one or two complete record rotations at 30 RPM.
New for the E2
The VC-E2 introduces several improvements over its predecessor. The cabinet uses 5 mm aluminium composite panels for improved rigidity. The clamp system is now magnetic: place the record on the platter, set the clamp in position, and it locks down without any screwing or thread engagement, protecting the record label from cleaning fluid and significantly reducing set-up time per record. The vacuum steam outlet has been redesigned, and the self-adhesive arm strip has been updated for better surface contact and suction efficiency.
Cleaning Fluid
The VC-E2 is supplied with a 100 ml bottle of Pro-Ject's Wash it 2 cleaning solution. Wash it 2 is a pre-mixed, alcohol-free formula: no dilution is required, and there is no risk of introducing unsuitable tap water. Alcohol-free formulas are recommended because alcoholic fluids can degrade the vinyl groove surface over time. Wash it 2 is also biodegradable. When Wash it 2 is used, the evaporative properties of the fluid mean the internal 0.5-litre waste tank needs emptying only occasionally.
Construction and Operation
The robust metal vacuum arm holds the self-adhesive strip firmly against the record surface, concentrating suction across the entire groove area. Separate MOTOR and VACUUM rocker switches on the side panel allow independent control of the platter drive and the vacuum pump. The internal waste container holds 0.5 litres and is straightforward to remove and empty. The VC-E2 operates from 110/120 V or 230/240 V mains at 50 or 60 Hz, making it suitable for use in the UK and internationally.
For collectors with larger collections who require faster throughput or higher-capacity cleaning, Pro-Ject's VC-S3 provides an upgrade path within the range.