The Degritter RCM MARK II: Unleashing the true potential of your vinyl records

The vinyl revival is no longer a marginal phenomenon. In 2024, vinyl record sales continue to grow, attracting both nostalgic listeners and new audiophiles. However, owning quality vinyl isn’t enough: proper maintenance determines sound quality and longevity, which is where the Degritter RCM MARKII comes in !

The consequences of poor maintenance

Problem	Impact on Listening	Impact on Equipment
Dust in grooves	Crackling, hissing	Premature stylus wear
Fingerprints	Sound distortion	Residue accumulation
Manufacturing residues	Parasitic noise	Microscopic scratches
Static electricity	Dust attraction	Clicking during playback

Degritter: estonian innovation revolutionizing vinyl cleaning

Degritter is an Estonian company founded in 2016, which began commercializing its machines in 2019. The brand distinguishes itself through its premium approach, offering machines that integrate seamlessly into high-end Hi-Fi systems while democratizing professional ultrasonic technology.

How does ultrasonic technology work?

RCM MARKII‘s ultrasonic technology operates through a 4-step process:

1. Wave generation: transducers emit high-frequency waves
2. Microbubble creation: waves form cavitation bubbles in water
3. Controlled implosion: bubbles implode, creating high-pressure micro-jets
4. Deep cleaning: jets dislodge impurities from microgrooves

Why use high frequency (120 kHz)?

Higher frequency generates much smaller cavitation bubbles (2.5 µm) than low frequency (8 µm). This microscopic size is essential, as the bottom of a vinyl microgroove measures only one micron.

Degritter RCM MARK II vs MARK I: complete comparison

RCM MARKII version innovations

Criteria	Degritter MARK I	Degritter RCM MARK II
Technology	Continuous ultrasonics	Ultrasonic Power Drive 2.0 + Pulse Mode
Operation Mode	Continuous emission	High-power pulses
Cavitation Efficiency	Standard	Improved (+30%)
Energy Consumption	300W constant	300W average (higher peaks)
Temperature Control	Manual	Automatic with cooling cycles
User Interface	Physical buttons	Touch controls + color screen
Design	Functional	Premium with aluminum finishes
Water Management	Basic monitoring	Intelligent temperature control
Launch Price	€2,499	€2,890

Pulse Mode Advantages (MARK II)

• Enhanced cavitation: stop/restart cycles increase implosion power
• Temperature control: prevents water overheating (35°C limit)
• Energy efficiency: optimized consumption despite superior power
• Longevity: less stress on electronic components

RCM MARK II: a user-focused machine

Component	Specification	Advantage
Transducers	4 units at 120 kHz	Uniformly distributed power
Power	300W average, higher peaks	Most powerful per liter of water on market
Tank	1.4 liters	Optimized for 33 RPM records
Materials	Anodized aluminum	Premium resistance and aesthetics
Filtration	Continuous active system	Prevents dirt redeposition
Drying	Variable filtered air	50-70 dB, customizable time

• Intelligent temperature control: The machine monitors water temperature. If it exceeds a certain threshold (35°C), automatic cooling cycles are triggered to prevent vinyl damage.
  
• Active filtration system: An active filtration system continuously pumps water through a replaceable filter, ensuring removed dirt doesn’t redeposit on the record.
  
• Customizable drying: Drying occurs via filtered airflow. Users can adjust fan speed and drying time to minimize noise (between 50-70 dB) and reduce static electricity.

How and when to use your Degritter

RCM MARKII usage guide

Preparation

1. Fill reservoir with distilled water (mandatory)
2. Add 2-3 ml of Degritter cleaning fluid
3. Check filter cleanliness
4. Turn on and let preheat for 2 minutes

Cleaning

1. Insert record without forcing
2. Select appropriate program
3. Press START
4. Machine automatically manages: soaking → cleaning → drying

Recommended cleaning programs

Record Type	Program	Duration	Usage
New vinyl	Quick	5 min	Manufacturing residue removal
Personal collection	Medium	10 min	Regular maintenance (every 10-20 plays)
Very dirty used	Intensive	15 min	First use or neglected records
Restoration	Double intensive	30 min	“Lost” records with multiple passes

Maintenance frequency by usage

• Active collector: cleaning after purchase + maintenance every 15 plays
• Occasional listening: initial cleaning + maintenance every 25 plays
• Intensive use: cleaning every 10 plays + monthly check
• Precious vinyl: preventive cleaning before each critical listening session

Results that transform listening

Users consistently report these improvements:

Noise Reduction

• Complete elimination of dust-related crackling
• Disappearance of surface hiss
• Significant reduction of background noise

Sound quality

• Restored dynamics: better loud/soft differentiation
• Improved clarity: cleaner instrumental separation
• Expanded soundstage: impression of space and depth
• Revealed details: previously masked micro-details

“ I am very satisfied with this device’s performance. Records find or rediscover pure sound. Previously, I had a Humminguru. It did the job very well, but the Degritter is above: records washed several times with the Hummi still improved with the Degritter. More silence, fewer clicks or clacks… Moreover, the Degritter works in automatic mode, you insert a record, press the button and that’s it until the next record. Again, even if it’s not essential, it’s more practical than the Hummi. In short, impossible now to listen to an LP without it going through the Degritter. Only the price might make you hesitate, I myself took a long time to take the plunge. But I don’t regret it ” 

Gilles O.

⚠️ Warning: The Degritter RCM MARKII CANNOT repair:

• Deep physical scratches
• Warping
• Excessive groove wear
• Damage caused by poor playback

It excels only in eliminating contaminants (dust, residues, traces).

The Degritter RCM MARKII transcends the simple concept of a cleaning machine to become a true musical revealer. It addresses enthusiasts who consider their collection a lasting investment and refuse any compromise on sound quality.

Beyond its cutting-edge technology, it’s the philosophy it embodies that appeals: automating maintenance to better savor music. For audiophiles with substantial collections or who regularly buy used vinyl, it represents not a luxury, but an essential tool that protects investments while enhancing every listening experience.

In a world where musical experience becomes tactile and contemplative again, the Degritter RCM MARKII establishes itself as the indispensable companion in this quest for sonic perfection.