Audio Intelligent Enzymatic Formula - 32 oz

Audio Intelligent Enzymatic Formula — Step One, and It Is Not Optional

The first step in Audio Intelligent's multi-step record cleaning system, developed by Paul Frumkin. It is an enzyme formula designed to loosen and dissolve a wide range of contaminants, including many that are protein-based and organic.

Audio Intelligent is direct about what it is and is not: the Enzymatic Formula requires follow-up cleaning with either the Super Cleaner Formula or the Premium Archivist Formula for a thoroughly clean record. On its own it is half a job.

How It Works

What Enzymes Do That Solvents Cannot

An enzyme breaks a specific class of molecule apart rather than dissolving everything it touches. That is why an enzyme formula reaches organic and protein-based contamination — mold, skin oils, the residue of decades in a sleeve — that a general solvent simply spreads around.

It also means the chemistry needs time. Enzymes work at a rate. They do not act the instant they touch a record. That is why the method below is a specification rather than a suggestion, and why rushing it wastes the bottle.

The Method Matters

Audio Intelligent asks you to coat the surface completely with a film, then brush lightly to aerate it. Give that a couple of minutes. The enzymes need the time to loosen and dissolve what is sitting on the record.

For extremely dirty records, or ones previously treated with a lubricating product, they suggest repeating the process or letting the formula soak for several minutes. The alternative is a pre-clean with their Formula No. 15, which speeds the whole thing up.

Chemistry and Use

Enzyme-based. Audio Intelligent states that none of their products contain any type of harsh detergent or lubricant, and that only pure, laboratory-grade components go into the formulas — a residue left behind is contamination in its own right.

A vacuum machine is optional here, not needed. One lifts the used fluid more completely than a cloth. But the fluid's job is to let a brush loosen debris and carry it away, and that happens either way.

Who Is the Enzymatic Formula Best For?

• You buy second-hand records — decades of organic contamination is exactly what enzymes are for
• You are starting a proper cleaning regime — this is step one and the other steps assume it
• Your records have been treated with something — old lubricating products are specifically addressed
• You have a machine or a brush — either works; the machine is faster, not required
• You want a one-bottle solution — this is not one, and Audio Intelligent says so; Formula No. 15 is their single-step answer

How Do You Use It?

Coat the playing surface completely so a film sits across it. Brush lightly to aerate the fluid and keep it moving for a couple of minutes. Then remove it — vacuum if you have a machine — and follow with a second-step formula before rinsing.

Used on its own it will still lift more than a dry brush ever could. For better results, run it as part of a full treatment program: the Enzymatic first, a second-step formula after it, and a rinse to finish. The rest of the sequence is in record cleaning solutions.

Pairs Well With

What most owners use alongside step one.

• Record cleaning solutions — the other steps in the sequence
• Record brushes — the brush is what does the loosening
• Record cleaning machines — for removing the fluid by vacuum rather than by cloth
• Stylus cleaning — the stylus picks up whatever the record kept

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it contain alcohol?

It is an enzyme formula. Audio Intelligent's Super Cleaner is the one in the range that contains a small amount of laboratory-grade isopropanol; the Premium Archivist is their alcohol-free second step.

Can I use it on its own?

You can, and it will lift a great deal. Audio Intelligent's position is that a thoroughly clean record needs a follow-up with either the Super Cleaner or the Premium Archivist.

Do I need a vacuum record cleaning machine?

A machine is optional, not needed. A vacuum lifts used fluid more completely than a cloth does. The formula still works without one, because its job is to let a brush loosen debris and carry it away.

How long should I leave it on?

A couple of minutes with light brushing to aerate it. For extremely dirty records, repeat the process or let it soak for several minutes.

Why Audio Advisor?

• 40+ Years of Expertise — Since 1981, we've helped over a million music lovers find the right gear.
• 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Take your time. Listen, enjoy, and make sure it's right for you.
• Real Experts, Real Help — Our team is here to answer your questions at 800-942-0220, weekdays 9am–6pm EST.
• Free Shipping — On orders over $49, delivered to your door.
• Flexible Payment Options — Financing available so you can start listening now.

Learn More

Want to learn more about turntable setup, record care, or getting the most from your vinyl? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.