Pro-Ject VC-E Mini Record Cleaning Machine

A Vacuum Record Cleaner That Fits Almost Anywhere

The Pro-Ject VC-E Mini is a vacuum-powered record cleaning machine, built as the smallest and simplest model in Pro-Ject's cleaning machine lineup. It's meant for anyone who wants real vacuum cleaning without giving up much shelf space.

Instead of the vacuum arm on the VC-E2 and VC-S3, the Mini builds its vacuum into the platter itself, underneath the record. A quiet, high-torque brushless DC motor drives the suction.

That design change is the whole point: Pro-Ject built it to simplify operation and run quieter than its larger siblings, since there's no separate arm to lower onto the record by hand.

A magnetic clamp holds the record in place at 30 RPM while it cleans. The machine runs off a 12V DC power supply rather than plugging directly into a wall outlet.

Compact Enough for a Small Shelf

At about 9 inches wide, 7.3 inches deep, and just 6.1 inches tall, the VC-E Mini is noticeably smaller than Pro-Ject's other cleaning machines. It weighs about 4.6 pounds without its power supply.

It draws a maximum of 60 watts, far less than the VC-E2 or VC-S3. Pro-Ject includes a 100ml bottle of Wash It 2 cleaning fluid, a vinyl brush, and replacement adhesive strips for the vacuum slot.

Two pre-mounted washers let you adjust the platter height as the felt wears. It is built for standard 12-inch records. Between the washers and the adhesive strips, the parts that wear are the parts you can replace.

Who Is This Machine Best For?

• Vinyl collectors with very little shelf or closet space. Its compact footprint fits where even the VC-E2 won't.
• Anyone who wants vacuum cleaning without a separate arm to manage. The bottom-mounted vacuum removes fluid without any lowering or positioning step.
• Listeners who want a quieter cleaning routine. Pro-Ject designed the Mini's motor to run quieter than its larger VC-E2 and VC-S3 siblings.
• First-time buyers easing into a vinyl cleaning routine. It's a simpler, more affordable entry point into Pro-Ject's cleaning lineup.
• You clean a few records at a sitting, not a crate — the smaller build and lower power draw suit a steady routine rather than a marathon, and a big backlog is better handled by the VC-S3.

How Do You Use It?

Secure the record on the platter with the magnetic clamp, then apply cleaning fluid and spread it with the included brush in both directions.

Wait a few seconds, then switch on the motor and vacuum together. Let the record complete at least two rotations in opposite directions to draw the fluid away.

Flip the record and repeat on the other side. Run the vacuum alone for 15 to 30 seconds afterward to clear any remaining fluid.

Pairs Well With

Building your system? Here are some great companions for the Pro-Ject VC-E Mini:

• Turntables that deserve records this clean feeding their stylus
• Phono cartridges that last longer tracking clean, grit-free grooves
• Phono preamplifiers to complete a full analog front end
• Audio racks to give your cleaning machine a permanent home

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this different from the VC-E2 and VC-S3?

Those machines use a vacuum arm you lower onto the record by hand. The Mini vacuums from underneath the platter instead, which simplifies operation and runs quieter.

Do I need to buy cleaning fluid separately?

A 100ml bottle of Pro-Ject's Wash It 2 fluid is included, so you can start right away. You'll need to buy more once that runs out.

Does it plug directly into the wall?

It runs on a 12V DC power supply that plugs into a standard outlet, similar to many compact audio components.

Can it clean 7-inch records?

The VC-E Mini is built for standard 12-inch records. Pro-Ject hasn't listed a 7-inch adapter kit for this model.

What's the warranty?

Pro-Ject covers the VC-E Mini for two years against manufacturing defects, extendable to three years with product registration.

See It in Action

Pro-Ject introduces the VC-E Mini and its under-platter vacuum:

The Listening Post unboxes the Mini and runs a full clean, start to finish:

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Learn More

Want to learn more about caring for your vinyl collection, setting up your turntable, or getting the quietest sound from your records? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.