HumminGuru HG05 NOVA

HumminGuru NOVA: ultrasonic cleaning for vinyl records

In 2020, a Kickstarter campaign that far exceeded its goal enabled HumminGuru to bring ultrasonic cleaning for vinyl records to a wider audience, a technology previously reserved for machines sold for several thousand euros. The NOVA continues this ambition with improvements based on the HG01 model, addressing some of its limitations and simplifying everyday use.

A 40 kHz cavitation-based approach

Ultrasonic cleaning relies on a simple physical phenomenon: high-frequency sound waves travel through water and generate millions of microbubbles. When these bubbles implode on contact with a hard surface, they produce tiny jets of water capable of dislodging particles embedded in the grooves, where a brush cannot reach.

The NOVA uses two ultrasonic transducers operating at 40 kHz, a frequency chosen to clean grooves without risking damage to the vinyl. Combined power reaches 45 W. Compared with the previous model, HumminGuru has introduced a frequency sweep technique that distributes cavitation energy more evenly across the entire surface of the record. The HG01 used a fixed frequency, which could create areas of more or less intense cleaning.

The water tank is made from a single piece of stainless steel to minimize energy loss. The wall sits just 10 mm from the surface of the record, allowing the ultrasonic waves to act directly on the vinyl rather than dispersing through a large volume of water.

Integrated drying and automatic cycle

What sets modern record-cleaning machines apart from simple ultrasonic tanks is their ability to dry the record after cleaning. On the NOVA, two fans spinning at 9,000 rpm (versus 7,300 on the HG01) handle this task. Drying takes between 3 and 6 minutes depending on the selected setting and ambient conditions. In a humid environment, adding a few drops of The Small Bottle surfactant (included with the device) speeds up evaporation.

AUTO mode chains together cleaning, draining, and drying without intervention. Three washing durations are available: 2 minutes for new or lightly dusty records, 5 minutes for deep cleaning, and 10 minutes for very dirty vinyl, an option absent from the HG01. A countdown displayed on the interface indicates the remaining time.

The modes can also be used separately. The drain mode, added on the NOVA, allows you to adjust the water level without having to start a full cycle.``

7”, 10”, and 12” compatibility without an adapter

On the HG01, cleaning 7-inch and 10-inch records required purchasing separate adapters that had to be clipped around the record. The NOVA integrates a patented mechanism with adjustable drive wheels. A supplied tool lets you change their position in a few seconds: simply insert it into an opening on the top of the device and turn it to the indicator corresponding to the desired format. The fans follow the same adjustment to blow directly onto the surface of the record regardless of its size.

This system also solves a problem reported by some HG01 users: records whose diameter deviated slightly from standard dimensions could engage poorly with the wheels and rotate unevenly.

A format designed to fit on shelves

The dimensions of 34 × 15 × 26.1 cm were calculated so that the machine can be stored in a Kallax shelf compartment or equivalent, alongside the records. The 3.4 kg weight makes it easy to move. The universal power adapter (100-240 V) comes with four interchangeable plugs, which can be useful when traveling or for collectors buying abroad.

The lid has been redesigned compared with the previous model. Slightly flatter, it incorporates a grooved surface that serves as the base for a drying rack. This can hold up to five records for air drying after batch cleaning. The same lid, equipped with the “HumminGuru Birds” feet, turns into a stand for displaying the sleeve of the record currently being played. Cable storage is provided inside the device.

Water consumption and maintenance

The NOVA operates with only 350 ml of water, a fraction of what competing machines use (some require more than 6 liters). Distilled water is recommended to avoid mineral deposits in the grooves and on internal circuits. One gallon of distilled water therefore allows about 18 refills.

Between each record, the water is automatically drained into a removable tank, then poured back manually via a funnel with an integrated filter. This filter captures large particles. A second air filter protects the fans during drying. Both types of filters are replaceable (six of each are included in the box).

HumminGuru indicates that the water can be reused as long as it remains clear. In practice, it starts to become cloudy after five or six records depending on their initial condition. For very dirty vinyl, pre-cleaning with a brush is recommended to avoid saturating the water too quickly.

The machine includes a thermal sensor that interrupts operation if the water temperature exceeds 55 °C, with a yellow warning light. A 6-minute cooling cycle can then be started. HumminGuru recommends taking a 15-minute break after 30 minutes of continuous cleaning.

Technical Specifications

Ultrasonic Cleaning

• Operating frequency: 40 kHz with frequency sweep
• Two ultrasonic transducers with a combined power output of 45 W
• Even cleaning across the entire record surface thanks to smooth, precise rotation
• Generation of microbubbles that remove dirt and dust without damaging the grooves
• Direct compatibility with 7”, 10”, and 12” formats without an adapter thanks to the patented mechanism
  • 7” and 10” basin supports included

Drying

• Integrated dual fan with replaceable air filter
• Fast drying time: 3 to 6 minutes (depending on the country)
• Adjustable rollers and fans for precise drying of 7”, 10”, and 12” formats
• Multifunction lid serving as a drying stand and display stand for records

Features

• AUTO mode: cleaning and drying in a single step
• Built-in timer
• Automatic drain mode
• Intuitive user interface
• Removable water tank
• Integrated water and air filtration
• Quiet operation
• Compact format, easy to store on any vinyl shelving

Box Contents

• HumminGuru NOVA
• Cleaning lid
• Removable water tank
• Filling funnel
• Maintenance tool
• 7” and 10” basin supports
• “The Small Bottle” cleaning solution bottle (5 ml)
• Drying accessories
• Storage pouch
• 6 air filters, 6 water filters
• Interchangeable power adapter (100 – 240 V)
• User manual

Power Supply

• Input voltage: 100 – 240 V (interchangeable power adapter)
• Output voltage: 12 V DC, 5.0 A
• Output power: 60 W

Product Identification

• Model: HG05
• Materials: ABS, stainless steel
• Dimensions: 34 x 15 x 26.1 cm
• Weight: 3.4 kg