“I've used these pick-up tubes for 15+ years on a 16. 5 and later a 10. 1 VPI machine. The tubes do the intended task very well but there are two weak points.
The first is that the tubes tend to crack over time at the point where they connect to the vacuum tube holder. I've tried to get around this by holding the vacuum tube when the suction is turned on (and when the direction is changed on the 10. 1) to prevent excessive tension being applied at the point of connection.
The second issue is that once the "velvet lips" wear out, usually at the rim of the LP, you have a situation where you have a plastic tube grinding against the rim of the record. At that point the tube must be replaced ($40 !?!), unless you don't mind this plastic to plastic contact. Unfortunately VPI nor any aftermarket vendors offer a DIY replacement system, at least not to my knowledge.
Otherwise this is an effective and worthwhile product.”
“I ordered extra tube plus holder as extra unit to rinse LPs. The oder came with something else instead of holder. I emailed AA; they responded next day to resolve the issue and mailed out the correct tube holder right away. Thank you for excellent service.”
