HumminGuru HG01

HumminGuru HG01: ultrasonic cleaning in a compact format

Ultrasonic cleaning, long reserved for machines costing several thousand euros or DIY enthusiasts equipped with industrial tanks, is becoming accessible with the HG01. This all-in-one machine cleans and dries a record in seven to fifteen minutes, without contact with the grooves. HumminGuru, a Hong Kong company born from a Kickstarter project in 2021, designed a device that fits on a Kallax shelf and weighs only 3.1 kg.

Two ultrasonic emitters working on both sides

The HG01 uses a 40 kHz frequency, a deliberate choice: powerful enough to dislodge particles embedded in the grooves, but not aggressive enough to damage the vinyl. Two transducers, placed on either side of the record, generate micro-bubbles through cavitation in the water bath. These bubbles implode against the surface of the record and lift off dust, molding residue, and fingerprints without any brush touching the grooves.

The tank is a single-piece stainless steel construction. This choice limits the loss of ultrasonic energy that occurs with assembled tanks. The space between the record and the walls of the tank is only 10 mm, allowing the waves to act directly on the vinyl surface rather than dispersing into a large volume of water.

An automated cycle from washing to drying

The rotation system holds the record by its edge via two contact points. No part touches the grooves, and the record rotates slowly in the bath to expose its entire surface to the ultrasounds. The drive rollers can be replaced by the user if they wear out.

Once washing is complete, the machine automatically drains the water into the removable tank, then two fans dry the record on both sides. An integrated air filter prevents ambient dust from settling back onto it during this phase. Drying takes place at room temperature, without heating.

Automatic mode combines washing and drying: seven minutes for quick cleaning (2 min + 5 min), fifteen minutes for deep treatment (5 min + 10 min). The cycles can also be separated if a record needs several washing passes or if you prefer to let it air-dry.

Reduced water consumption

Where traditional ultrasonic machines require several liters of water, the HG01 operates with 350 to 400 ml of distilled water depending on the record format. The tank includes a filter that allows the water to be reused for about twenty records before changing it. Distilled water is recommended because tap water leaves mineral deposits in the grooves after drying.

HumminGuru offers an alcohol-free surfactant (The Small Bottle) that reduces the surface tension of the water and improves its penetration into the grooves. Two to three drops per bath are enough. It is not mandatory, but drying is faster and results are more consistent, especially in a humid environment. One 30 ml bottle treats more than one thousand records.

Compact format and thoughtful storage

With dimensions of 34 × 15 × 27.4 cm, the HG01 slips into a standard vinyl cabinet. The top cover includes a storage space for the power cord, avoiding cables lying around when the machine is not in use. At 3.1 kg, the device is easy to move.

The noise level is around 60 dB during operation, equivalent to a normal conversation. The most noticeable noise comes from the water pumping during tank drainage.

Compatibility with different formats

The HG01 natively accepts 12-inch records (33 and 45 rpm maxi format). 7-inch records (45 rpm singles) and 10-inch records require adapters sold separately. All common weights are supported: 130g, 160g, 180g, and 220g.

Shellac 78 rpm records must not be cleaned with this machine. The fragility of this old medium makes it vulnerable to ultrasounds, which can worsen existing micro-cracks.

Technical specifications

• Type: Ultrasonic cleaning machine for vinyl records

Ultrasonic cleaning technology

• Cleaning frequency: 40 kHz
  • Wavelength selected to effectively remove contaminants and dust without causing damage to the grooves
• Two ultrasonic emitters placed on either side of the vinyl record
• Operating principle: sound waves sent into a liquid bath, generating micro-bubbles that strike the surface to be cleaned
  • Process widely used in many fields: medical, jewelry, industry

Rotation system

• Smooth and gentle rotation of the record in the tank
• Two-point contact rotation system
  • Firm hold of the record by its edge
  • No contact with the grooves, guaranteeing no damage
• Drive rollers replaceable by the user

Operating modes

• Wash mode: adjustable duration of 2 / 5 min
• Dry mode: adjustable duration of 5 / 10 min
• Automatic mode: 2 modes combining washing and drying
  • Automatic draining of the tank to the water reservoir at the end of the wash cycle
  • Continuation of the drying cycle without human intervention

Noise level

• Quiet operation: approximately 60 dB

User-replaceable parts

• Replaceable filters: air filter, water filter
• Drive rollers

Package contents

• Ultrasonic cleaning machine for vinyl records
• Machine lid
• Power cord
• User manual
• Removable water reservoir x 1
• Maintenance tool x 1
• Replacement kit x 1

Dimensions and weight

• Dimensions: 34 x 15 x 27.4 cm
• Weight: 3.1 kg
• Compact format: fits into a vinyl shelf

Power supply

• Input: DC 12 V 5.0 A
• Output power: 45 W
• AC power cord storage integrated into the machine