Audio T Verdict
The VC-E2 brings the benefits of a proper wet vacuum record-cleaning machine into a much more manageable footprint than Pro-Ject's larger VC-S3. It still gives you a powerful vacuum arm, 30 RPM bi-directional rotation, magnetic label-protecting clamp and ready-mixed Wash it 2 fluid, but the 310mm-wide cabinet is considerably easier to accommodate at home.
Cleaning is quick too. Apply the fluid, use the supplied brush to work it across the groove in both directions and then let the vacuum arm remove the contaminated liquid. Pro-Ject states that a record can be completely dry within one to two rotations.
For anyone regularly buying second-hand vinyl, or simply wanting to look after an established collection properly, the VC-E2 is one of those accessories that soon becomes part of the normal record-playing routine rather than something brought out once a year.
Pro-Ject VC-E2 Vinyl Record Cleaning Machine
The VC-E2 is Pro-Ject's compact wet vacuum record cleaning machine, designed to remove dirt, contamination and cleaning fluid from deep within the record groove rather than simply brushing loose dust from the surface.
Its powerful vacuum system can leave a record clean and dry in one to two rotations, while the magnetic clamp protects the paper label and speeds up the process when working through several records.
- Compact wet vacuum record cleaning machine
- 30 RPM cleaning speed
- Clockwise and counter-clockwise rotation
- Powerful vacuum extraction
- Completely dry record within one to two rotations
- Magnetic record clamp
- Clamp seals the label against cleaning fluid
- Robust metal vacuum arm
- Replaceable self-adhesive vacuum-arm strip
- Improved vacuum exhaust arrangement
- 0.5-litre internal waste-fluid reservoir
- Wash it 2 cleaning fluid included
- 100ml starter bottle supplied
- Wash it 2 supplied ready mixed
- Alcohol-free cleaning solution
- Non-toxic and non-flammable fluid
- Designed for residue-free evaporation
- Helps remove static charge
- 5mm aluminium-composite cabinet panels
- Automatic overheating protection
- 12-inch record cleaning as standard
- Dedicated VC-E2 7-inch cleaning kit available separately
- Made in Europe
Why Wet Clean Records?
A dry record brush is useful for removing loose dust immediately before playback, but contamination can also become lodged much deeper within the groove.
Wet cleaning allows a suitable cleaning solution to loosen dirt and grease before the vacuum physically extracts both the contaminated fluid and the debris it has released.
This can be particularly worthwhile with:
- Second-hand records
- Older collections that have been stored for years
- Fingerprinted records
- Dusty or greasy pressings
- Records with persistent surface contamination
- New records carrying packaging or manufacturing residue
Vacuum Extraction
The key difference between the VC-E2 and a simple manual record bath is what happens after the fluid has cleaned the groove.
The metal vacuum arm extracts the used cleaning solution rather than leaving it on the record to evaporate naturally.
That means dirt suspended within the fluid is physically removed from the playing surface.
Dry Within One to Two Rotations
The vacuum system is powerful enough for Pro-Ject to specify a completely dry record within approximately one to two revolutions.
There is no need to leave freshly cleaned records standing for long periods before playing or returning them to their sleeves.
30 RPM Cleaning Speed
The VC-E2 rotates records at 30 RPM.
This faster-than-playback speed allows the brush and vacuum arm to work across the complete record surface quickly and consistently.
Bi-Directional Cleaning
The motor can rotate in either direction:
- Position I: Clockwise
- Position II: Counter-clockwise
- Centre: Motor stopped
Pro-Ject recommends working the Wash it 2 fluid across the groove in both rotational directions before vacuuming.
Vacuum in Both Directions
For extraction, the current Pro-Ject manual recommends approximately one vacuum rotation in one direction followed by another rotation in the opposite direction.
Once the fluid has been removed, stop the vacuum and motor and allow the surface a few seconds to finish drying.
More Vacuuming Is Not Better
Once the fluid has been removed, there is no benefit in continuing to run the vacuum over a dry record. One rotation in each direction is Pro-Ject's recommended routine.
Magnetic Record Clamp
The VC-E2 uses Pro-Ject's quick magnetic clamp rather than a threaded screw-down design.
Place the record onto the support, position the clamp over the spindle and it snaps into place magnetically.
That makes repeated cleaning much quicker when working through a group of records.
Protects the Record Label
The magnetic clamp also incorporates a seal around the record label.
This helps stop Wash it 2 reaching the paper centre label when fluid is being spread across the playing surface.
Use Enough Fluid to Cover the Record, Not the Machine
Pro-Ject's current manual recommends approximately 3ml of Wash it 2 per record side. Apply enough to wet the groove area evenly rather than flooding the surface.
Wash it 2 Included
The VC-E2 includes a 100ml bottle of Pro-Ject Wash it 2 cleaning solution.
Unlike earlier concentrate-based cleaners, Wash it 2 is supplied ready mixed with demineralised water, so there is no need to measure concentrate or rely on household tap water.
Alcohol-Free Cleaning Solution
Pro-Ject specifies Wash it 2 as:
- Alcohol free
- Non-toxic
- Non-flammable
- Ready to use
- Designed to dissolve grease and contamination
- Fast evaporating
- Designed to leave no residue
Replacement Wash it 2
Replacement Pro-Ject Wash it 2 Record Cleaning Fluid is available when the supplied starter bottle has been used.
Current refill sizes include:
Use the Supplied Cleaning Brush
The supplied record brush is used to work the Wash it 2 solution into the groove before vacuum extraction.
Hold the brush horizontally against the rotating record and use enough pressure to help loosen contamination without treating the process as though you were scrubbing a kitchen worktop.
Let the Fluid Work
Once the playing surface is evenly wet, Pro-Ject recommends waiting a few seconds before vacuuming.
Heavily contaminated records can be given a little longer so the cleaning fluid has more opportunity to loosen deposits within the groove.
Metal Vacuum Arm
The robust metal vacuum arm is mechanically stable and designed to concentrate suction directly across the playing surface.
Place the arm above the record, lower it into position and switch on the vacuum as the record turns.
Self-Adhesive Vacuum Strip
A replaceable self-adhesive strip provides the contact surface between the vacuum arm and record.
Replacement strips and an installation tool are included with the machine, and additional strips are available when required.
Check the Strip Regularly
Pro-Ject recommends inspecting the vacuum-arm strip for dirt and debris.
This matters because contamination collected from one record should not then be dragged across the next one you clean.
Keep the Vacuum Strip Clean
The strip comes into direct contact with every wet record you clean. Replace it when it becomes worn or contaminated rather than allowing old debris to become part of the next cleaning cycle.
Improved Vacuum Exhaust
The VC-E2 uses a revised exhaust arrangement designed to direct the vacuum motor's outgoing airflow away from the underside of the record.
This is one of the practical changes Pro-Ject introduced when updating the original VC-E to the current E2 generation.
0.5-Litre Waste-Fluid Tank
Used Wash it 2 is collected inside the VC-E2's 0.5-litre internal reservoir.
This is smaller than the 2.5-litre reservoir used in the premium VC-S3, but is one of the reasons the E2 can remain substantially more compact.
The Tank Rarely Needs Emptying
Wash it 2 continues to evaporate after it has been collected inside the reservoir.
Pro-Ject states that under common domestic use the internal tank takes a very long time to fill and may rarely need draining.
How Is the VC-E2 Tank Emptied?
The current manual specifies a straightforward procedure:
- Disconnect the mains cable.
- Turn the VC-E2 upside down above a sufficiently large container.
- Allow the internal reservoir to drain.
- Wipe any liquid from the machine before returning it to normal use.
The VC-E2 Does Not Use the VC-S3 Drain System
The compact E2 has a different reservoir arrangement from the larger VC-S3. Follow the VC-E2 draining procedure rather than instructions intended for another Pro-Ject cleaner.
Automatic Overheating Protection
The VC-E2 includes automatic thermal protection.
If excessive use causes the machine to become too hot, the motor can switch itself off. Normal operation returns after an appropriate cool-down period.
Pro-Ject also recommends switching the motor off when you are not actively cleaning a record rather than leaving the machine running unnecessarily.
Designed for Longer Cleaning Sessions
The VC-E2 is capable of extended operation, although the spindle, clamp area and exhaust air can naturally become warm during a long session.
Pro-Ject states that this operating temperature is not high enough to damage records when the machine is being used correctly.
Vacuum Motor Maintenance After Use
The latest Pro-Ject manual recommends a simple procedure at the end of each cleaning session:
- Remove the vacuum arm from its flange.
- Switch the vacuum motor on.
- Allow it to run for approximately 15 to 30 seconds.
- Switch it off before storing the machine.
This helps blow remaining moisture out of the vacuum motor and internal airflow system.
Worth Doing After Every Session
The 15 to 30 second drying cycle takes very little time and helps keep internal components dry after wet cleaning.
Don't Seal the Machine Away While Damp
For the same reason, Pro-Ject advises against returning the VC-E2 to the plastic bag from its original packaging after use.
Allow the vacuum system and cabinet to remain ventilated so any residual moisture can disperse.
The Vacuum Is Loud
A powerful vacuum motor inevitably produces noticeable noise.
Pro-Ject specifically recommends hearing protection during longer cleaning sessions.
In normal use, the actual vacuum stage is very short because each side only needs around one or two rotations.
Intentional Movement in the Record Support
A small amount of wobble in the record support is intentional.
According to Pro-Ject, this helps accommodate warped records and records of different thicknesses without needing constant height adjustment.
Record-Support Height Adjustment
Two plastic washers are supplied beneath the record support to establish its height.
If the platter stops when the vacuum is engaged because the suction is pulling too strongly against the record, Pro-Ject's troubleshooting guidance recommends removing one washer to adjust the height.
12-Inch Records as Standard
The standard VC-E2 vacuum arm and clamp are designed for 12-inch records.
That covers conventional LPs.
Optional VC-E2 7-Inch Cleaning Kit
Pro-Ject offers a dedicated version of its VC 7-inch Kit MKII specifically for the VC-E2.
The kit includes:
- Dedicated 7-inch vacuum arm
- Short adhesive velvet strips
- Dedicated 7-inch clamp
- 100ml Wash it 2 fluid
Use the VC-E2 Version of the 7-Inch Kit
Pro-Ject manufactures different 7-inch kit versions for different VC machines. Make sure the accessory supplied is specifically the VC-E2 version.
5mm Aluminium-Composite Cabinet
The compact enclosure uses substantial 5mm aluminium-composite panels.
This provides a rigid structure around the record drive and powerful vacuum motor while keeping the physical size manageable.
Compact 310mm Width
The VC-E2's biggest practical advantage compared with the VC-S3 is physical size.
Current dimensions are:
- Width: 310mm
- Height: 266mm
- Depth: 210mm
- Weight: 6.5kg
That makes it considerably easier to find a permanent home for than a conventional full-width record cleaning machine.
VC-E2 or VC-S3?
Both use the same basic wet vacuum cleaning principle, but their size and reservoir capacity suit different collections.
VC-E2
- Compact model
- 310mm wide
- 6.5kg
- 0.5-litre reservoir
- 30 RPM bi-directional cleaning
- Magnetic clamp
- Ideal where space is more limited
VC-S3
- Premium larger model
- 415mm wide
- 8kg
- 2.5-litre reservoir
- 30 RPM bi-directional cleaning
- Magnetic clamp
- Better suited to very large collections
If you expect to clean very large numbers of records regularly, the Pro-Ject VC-S3 ALU offers a much larger 2.5-litre reservoir. The VC-E2 makes more sense where compact dimensions are the priority.
Direct Mains Power
The VC-E2 connects directly to AC mains rather than using a small external DC power supply.
The current UK/European 230/240V version is specified at 800W maximum power consumption, reflecting the high-powered vacuum motor used during the short extraction cycle.
Made in Europe
Pro-Ject specifies the VC-E2 as Made in Europe.
What Comes in the Box?
- Pro-Ject VC-E2 record cleaning machine
- 12-inch vacuum arm
- Self-adhesive vacuum-arm strip
- Replacement adhesive strips
- Adhesive-strip replacement tool
- Magnetic record clamp
- Record cleaning brush
- 100ml Wash it 2 cleaning fluid
- 2 x record-support height-setting washers
- AC power cable
Recommended Cleaning Routine
- Place the record onto the support.
- Fit the magnetic clamp.
- Start the motor.
- Apply approximately 3ml of Wash it 2 to the playing surface.
- Use the supplied brush to spread the fluid evenly across the groove.
- Brush in both directions.
- Allow the fluid a few seconds to loosen contamination.
- Move the vacuum arm into position.
- Switch on the vacuum.
- Complete approximately one rotation in the first direction.
- Reverse the motor and complete another rotation.
- Switch off the vacuum and motor.
- Allow a few seconds for the surface to finish drying.
- Remove the clamp and turn the record over.
- Repeat for the second side.
Key Features
- Pro-Ject VC-E2
- Compact record cleaning machine
- Wet vacuum cleaning
- 12-inch record compatibility
- Optional VC-E2 7-inch kit
- 30 RPM cleaning speed
- Clockwise rotation
- Counter-clockwise rotation
- Powerful vacuum extraction
- Dry within one to two rotations
- Magnetic record clamp
- Record-label protection
- Metal vacuum arm
- Self-adhesive vacuum strip
- Replacement strips supplied
- Improved vacuum exhaust
- Automatic overheating protection
- 0.5-litre waste reservoir
- Wash it 2 supplied
- 100ml starter bottle
- Ready-mixed cleaning fluid
- Alcohol-free cleaning fluid
- Non-toxic cleaning fluid
- Non-flammable cleaning fluid
- Residue-free evaporation
- Static-charge reduction
- Approximately 3ml fluid per side
- 5mm aluminium-composite panels
- 310mm-wide cabinet
- 6.5kg net weight
- Made in Europe
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Pro-Ject VC-E2 still current?
Yes. It remains part of Pro-Ject's current record-cleaning machine range.
How does the VC-E2 clean records?
Wash it 2 cleaning fluid is brushed into the record groove before a metal vacuum arm removes the used fluid and suspended contamination.
Is it a wet cleaner?
Yes. It is a wet vacuum cleaning machine.
How fast does the record rotate?
30 RPM.
Can it rotate in both directions?
Yes. Clockwise and counter-clockwise operation are provided.
Why use both directions?
Pro-Ject recommends spreading the cleaning fluid in both directions before vacuuming and then using approximately one vacuum rotation in each direction.
How long does vacuuming take?
Pro-Ject states that a record can be completely dry within one to two rotations.
How much Wash it 2 should I use?
The current manufacturer manual recommends approximately 3ml per record side.
Is Wash it 2 included?
Yes. A 100ml bottle is supplied.
Do I dilute Wash it 2?
No. Wash it 2 is supplied ready mixed with demineralised water.
Does Wash it 2 contain alcohol?
No.
Is Wash it 2 flammable?
No. Pro-Ject describes it as non-flammable.
Does the cleaning process reduce static?
Yes. Pro-Ject lists removal of static charge as one benefit of the wet-cleaning process.
Does the magnetic clamp protect the label?
Yes. It seals the centre label against cleaning fluid.
Does the clamp need screwing down?
No. It attaches magnetically.
What size records can I clean as standard?
The standard clamp and vacuum arm are designed for 12-inch records.
Can it clean 7-inch singles?
Yes, with the dedicated VC-E2 version of Pro-Ject's VC 7-inch Kit MKII.
What comes in the 7-inch kit?
A dedicated 7-inch vacuum arm, shorter adhesive strips, 7-inch clamp and 100ml bottle of Wash it 2.
How large is the waste tank?
0.5 litres.
Does the tank need emptying regularly?
Usually not. Pro-Ject states that much of the collected Wash it 2 evaporates naturally inside the reservoir during ordinary domestic use.
How is the tank emptied?
Disconnect the mains supply and turn the machine upside down over a suitable container according to Pro-Ject's current instructions.
Does it have a tank-level gauge?
No level gauge is specified for the VC-E2. The larger VC-S3 uses a different waste-fluid arrangement.
Does the vacuum strip need replacing?
Yes. Inspect it regularly and replace it when worn or contaminated.
Are replacement strips included?
Yes. Replacement strips and a fitting tool are supplied.
What should I do after a cleaning session?
Pro-Ject recommends removing the vacuum arm and running the vacuum motor for approximately 15 to 30 seconds to clear residual moisture from the internal system.
Why shouldn't I store it straight back inside its plastic bag?
Pro-Ject advises keeping the machine ventilated after wet use so residual moisture can disperse from the vacuum system.
Is the vacuum noisy?
Yes. Pro-Ject describes the machine as producing loud operating noise and recommends hearing protection for longer cleaning sessions.
Does it have overheating protection?
Yes. Automatic thermal protection can stop the motor after excessive use until the machine has cooled.
Why does the record support move slightly?
Pro-Ject states that a small amount of movement is intentional to help accommodate warped records and records of different thicknesses.
Can the record-support height be adjusted?
Yes. Two adjustment washers are supplied.
What if the motor stops when the vacuum is engaged?
Pro-Ject's troubleshooting guidance recommends checking the support height and removing one washer where required.
What is the cabinet made from?
Pro-Ject specifies 5mm aluminium-composite panels.
How large is the VC-E2?
310mm wide, 266mm high and 210mm deep when fully assembled.
How much does it weigh?
6.5kg net.
What is the UK power requirement?
The UK/European version operates from 230/240V AC at 50/60Hz.
What is the published 230V power consumption?
800W.
Is the VC-E2 designed for commercial record-cleaning services?
No. Pro-Ject's current manual specifies the VC-E2 for non-commercial use.
Where is it made?
Pro-Ject specifies the VC-E2 as Made in Europe.
What is the difference between VC-E2 and VC-S3?
The VC-E2 is the more compact machine with a 0.5-litre internal reservoir. The larger VC-S3 uses a 2.5-litre reservoir and is positioned for people with larger record collections.
Related Pro-Ject Products
Why Buy the Pro-Ject VC-E2 From Audio T?
A good vacuum cleaner can make a very practical difference to a vinyl collection, particularly if you regularly buy used records. Audio T can show you the correct amount of cleaning fluid to use, how to work the brush across the groove and how short the actual vacuum cycle needs to be.
We can also supply replacement Wash it 2 and help with consumable items such as vacuum-arm strips and the dedicated 7-inch cleaning kit as your collection develops.
- In-store demonstrations
- Wet-cleaning guidance
- Wash it 2 application advice
- Correct brushing technique
- Bi-directional cleaning guidance
- Vacuum-cycle guidance
- Magnetic-clamp setup
- Vacuum-arm setup
- Vacuum-strip maintenance
- Replacement-strip advice
- Waste-tank maintenance guidance
- 7-inch cleaning-kit advice
- Replacement Wash it 2 fluid
- General record-care advice
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss whether the compact VC-E2 or larger VC-S3 is the better choice for your record collection.