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, has designed a device that fits inside 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, not aggressive enough to damage the vinyl. Two transducers, placed on either side of the record, generate micro-bubbles by 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 monobloc, made of stainless steel. This choice limits the loss of ultrasonic energy that occurs with assembled tanks. The space between the record and the tank walls 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 in case of wear.

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 again during this phase. Drying is done 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 are enough per bath. It is not mandatory, but drying is faster and results are more consistent, especially in humid environments. A 30 ml bottle treats more than a 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 loose cables 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, which is equivalent to a normal conversation. The most noticeable noise comes from pumping the water when draining the tank.

Compatibility with different formats

The HG01 natively accepts 12-inch records (33 and 45 rpm in maxi format). 7-inch records (45 rpm singles) and 10-inch records require adapters supplied or sold separately depending on the versions. 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 older 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 through a liquid bath, generating microbubbles 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, ensuring 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 into the water reservoir at the end of the wash cycle
  • Drying cycle starts automatically 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
• Adapter for 17 cm (7”) records x 1
• Adapter for 25 cm (10”) records 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
• Mains cord storage integrated into the machine