clearaudio Smart Matrix Silent Stereo Magazine User Manual

June 9, 2024
clearaudio

clearaudio Smart Matrix Silent Stereo Magazine

clearaudio Smart Matrix Silent Stereo Magazine

Dear Clearaudio customer,

Thank you for choosing the smart matrix SILENT record cleaning machine, a high quality product made in Germany by Clearaudio.

A clean vinyl record has so much more to offer: more information, more detail and, let’s face it, better sound. That’s why audio experts advocate cleaning not only your latest flea market finds but also your brand-new LPs fresh from the press – to remove those unwanted surface chemical residues.

To avoid misuse and achieve the best possible cleaning results with your smart matrix SILENT record cleaning machine, please read this user manual carefully.

Components and processing

The Clearaudio smart matrix SILENT is built using the highest quality components and is designed for intensive and continuous use. The chassis, the cleaning, vacuum and antistatic arms, and the SMS Seal record clamp are all machined from solid aluminium. The design and construction of the record cleaning machine reduce noise to a minimum.
We wish you much musical enjoyment with your new Clearaudio smart matrix SILENT record cleaning machine.

Clearaudio electronic GmbH

Available accessories

  • Microfibre stripes (Art. No. AC062/SMS):
    Available accessories

  • Carbon fibre brush (Art.No. AC004):
    Available accessories

  • Record cleaning fluid (for example pure groove Art. No. AC048):
    Available in different sizes &  versions
    Available accessories

Dustcover for smart matrix SILENT (Art. No. AC162)

You can purchase spare parts or accessories either from your Clearaudio dealer or directly from the Clearaudio analog shop: www.analogshop.de

Safety instructions

General information

Check the unit for any damage before using it. Do not connect the record cleaning machine if damaged!
Never connect the unit if it has been dropped or gotten wet, contact your dealer to have the unit checked.

Never expose the machine to rain or moisture.

Never touch the power cord of the device with wet hands.

Regular visual inspections for defective insulation on the connection cable are also recommended for your own safety.
A damaged cable should be replaced immediately by a specialist!

Never pull on the power cord to unplug the device. Always pull directly on the plug!

The inside of the unit is maintenance free. Never open the case or attempt to repair the unit yourself, since this can lead to loss of warranty!

We recommend disconnecting the power supply from the mains if you do not operate the device for a longer period of time.

Not suitable for children! Scope of delivery may contain small parts that can be swallowed.

Intended use

The smart matrix SILENT is a record cleaning machine to clean records.
The intended use of the smart matrix SILENT in accordance with the information provided in the user manual only.

The power supply may only be operated with maximum permissible connection values according to the technical data.

Any other use or modification of this product is not intended.

Location of installation

The device should only be set up on level surfaces.

Avoid locations with direct sunlight, temperature fluctuations and high humidity.
Likewise, avoid placing electronic devices near heaters, heat lamps, or other devices that produce heat.

The device is designed for operation at room temperature.

No objects with an open flame may be placed on or near the device (burning candles or similar).

Overload

The product is designed to comply with all necessary safety regulations. However, you should not leave the device unattended under extreme loads.

Maintenance

Never use aggressive cleaning detergent.

Do not use dry cloths for cleaning as this generates static electricity. Suitable cleaning and care products from Clearaudio are available from www.analogshop.de or from specialist retailers.

Please note: If fluids that produce foam, or fluids which are acid-based, have been used, or if the precautions noted in this instruction manual have not been followed, the warranty will be void.

Health information

Permanently high volume can lead to various types of hearing damage. Use high volume responsibly!

Service

The smart matrix SILENT record cleaning machine should be repaired during the guarantee period by the manufacturer only, otherwise the warranty claim expires. All Clearaudio products should only be serviced by specialist retailers.

If, despite the high production standard, a service is necessary, the smart matrix SILENT must be send to Clearaudio through your dealer.

Legal disclaimer:
Clearaudio refuse to cover any claims or damage to records or any other damage that have been caused by misuse or mishandling of the smart matrix SILENT.

Transport

Use the original packing material for further transportation of the smart matrix SILENT, otherwise serious damage could occur

Be sure to pack the device exactly as it was shipped.
Safe transport is only guaranteed in the original packaging.

Proceed in reverse as described for assembly when packing.

Ensure also that both tanks (fluid reservoir and waste fluid tank) are empty before packing the unit and the cap of the cleaning fluid reservoir is secured with tape.

Clearaudio assumes no liability for any damage that may occur due to incorrect packing.

Disposal

Do not dispose this product together with other waste.
WEEE Reg. No.: DE26004446

SymbolCE Marking
This electronic product corresponds to the applicable guidelines for obtaining the CE mark.

Package contents

The Clearaudio smart matrix SILENT record cleaning machine is packed in customised packing.
We highly recommend that you keep the original packing material in case any future transportation or shipping is necessary.

After opening the shipping box, please take the various accessories out and place them near to the area where you want to use the machine. Using both hands, lift out the machine and place it onto a stable and waterproof surface.
Ensure that the packaging has no external damage, such as shipping damage.

IMPORTANT: Never lift the smart matrix SILENT by its platter.

Please check the contents included with the machine as listed below:

  1. Fully assembled record cleaning machine
  2. Record clamp (mounted on the platter)
  3. Filling funnel
  4. IEC connector (according to country specifications)
  5. Spare microfibre stripes (2 pcs.)
  6. **500ml groove care cleaning fluid***
  7. Cap for cleaning fluid reservoir (mounted on the filling opening)
  8. Tube plug (mounted on the drain tube)
  9. Single adapter (for 7 inch records)
  10. Warranty card / Quality control card

In the event of an incomplete delivery, please contact the relevant Clearaudio dealer immediately.

  • We do not recommend to clean your shellac records with groove care because Vinyl cleaner easily affect Shellac.

Please use only liquids which are specifically developed for this purpose (for example Clearaudio pure groove Shellac, Art. No. AC048/SH, available through your Clearaudio dealer or directly from the Clearaudio analog shop: www.analogshop.de.)

Features overview of the smart matrix SILENT

  • Cleans 12, 10 and 7-inch records
    Thanks to an individually adjustable and multifunctional cleaning/suction arm, it is possible to clean all record sizes without changing the arm.

  • Bi-directional rotation
    For enhanced cleaning performance you can change the direction of the rotation.

  • Record clamp
    Ensures that the record is held firmly during the cleaning process and protects the record label from fluid damage.

  • Integrated fluid application
    Via a pump, by pressing a button.

  • Easy controls
    Simple and quick handling, using buttons on the top of the cleaning machine.

Set-up and operation

Place the smart matrix SILENT machine on a clean, dry and stable surface.
The surface should be waterproof.
Please make sure that the machine is positioned safely and securely.

TIP: We recommend keeping a towel near the machine to mop up any fluid spillage.

Connect the mains cable to your smart matrix SILENT and then to your wall socket.
The smart matrix SILENT must always be used with a grounded mains wall socket.

IMPORTANT:
Please read before you connect your smart matrix SILENT to any power outlet:

The smart matrix SILENT is available in both 230V and 110V versions.
The correct voltage is indicated on the rear of your smart matrix SILENT.
Please make sure that you use the right voltage for your machine.

Pic. 1: IEC socket on the rear side

Use your smart matrix SILENT only with the voltage indicated on the rear of the machine!
To switch off the device completely (to avoid unnecessary standby consumption if it will not be used for a long period of time) we recommend setting the switch on the IEC socket to the position “0”.

Filling the cleaning fluid reservoir

Set-up and operation
Pic. 2: Filling the cleaning fluid reservoir

Remove the cap from the cleaning fluid reservoir and place the filling funnel supplied into the hole (Pic. 2). Fill the fluid reservoir with the cleaning fluid provided (max. 0.4l). Then replace the cap.

For effective cleaning we recommend using only Clearaudio cleaning fluid (available at www.analogshop.de).

Operating elements

Operating elements

1 Cleaning & vacuum arm 4 Vacuum drying on / off
2 Rotation direction selector 5 Record clamp
3 Cleaning fluid application 6 Cleaning fluid reservoir filling

cap

Please familiarise yourself with each of the operating elements shown above, which are described in detail on the following pages.

Cleaning process

For simple and effective record cleaning please follow these steps:
(Make sure that there is good ventilation in the room while using the smart matrix SILENT machine.)

  1. Make sure, that the cleaning-/ vacuum arm is in rest position (not above the platter).
    Connect the smart matrix SILENT machine to the mains supply as described in point 3.2 and switch the main switch on the rear panel on.

  2. Remove the record clamp and place the record on the platter, then hand-tighten the record clamp onto the spindle so the record won‘t move during the suction process. Now adjust the cleaning/vacuum arm to the correct size of your record (Pic. 4).
    Cleaning process
    Pic. 4: Adjustment of the cleaning/vacuum arm

  3. Start the machine by swinging the cleaning/vacuum arm back above the platter and then pressing it down. Due to its automatic on/off system, the platter will start to turn and will automatically apply a small dose of cleaning fluid onto the platter (Pic. 5).
    Pic. 5: On/off system
    Cleaning process

  4. By pressing and hold the ‘Liquid’ button (Pic. 3, No. 3) you can dose the cleaning fluid on the record. Once the record is equally and completely covered with a small amount of cleaning fluid, we recommend changing the platter direction after 2-3 rotations by pressing the ‘Platter’ switch (Pic. 3, No. 2).
    Please note:
    The fluid should just cover the whole record playing surface evenly. Too much fluid will spill onto the surface of the smart matrix SILENT or onto the record label. If too much fluid is applied, immediately mop up the excess with a towel or similar material to prevent any damage to the record label or to the machine.
    TIP: For very dirty records, we recommend allowing the platter to turn more than twice in each direction and then repeating with a second or even third cleaning and vacuum process.

  5. Press the ‘Vacuum’ button (Pic. 3, No. 4) to start the vacuuming process and wait until the record surface is completely dry. Press the ‘Vacuum’ button again to stop the vacuuming process.
    Please note:
    For best cleaning results we recommend selecting anti-clockwise rotation of the platter for vacuuming.

  6. Now you can switch the rotation off, by lifting the cleaning/suction arm and then swinging it back to the side. Remove the record clamp. Flip over the record and repeat the cleaning process by following points 1-5 for the other side.

To discharge any static that is generated during the drying process, we recommend using an antistatic brush (Art. No. AC014, available at www.analogshop.de) before playing the record on your turntable.

Maintenance

Cleaning and draining the waste fluid tank

Please empty the waste fluid tank after 30 – 40 cleaning procedures. The waste fluid tank has a capacity of approx. 0.5 litres. We recommend regular emptying of the tank, to avoid any damage.

Please note that with intensive use, waste fluid can evaporate nearly completely leaving a residue within the waste tank which may clump over time and possibly clog the discharge opening. For prevention we recommend occasional cleaning. Before you start cleaning, you should first empty the waste fluid tank.

Please make sure that you have switched off the vacuum motor while emptying the waste fluid tank otherwise damage to the machine could occur.

To empty the tank, first remove the stopper from the fluid release tube (on the rear panel of the smart matrix SILENT). Place the tube in an appropriate vessel (one deep enough to capture the fluid as it is flows out). Be sure to securely replace the stopper in the fluid release tube.

Pic. 6: Emptying the waste fluid tank
Emptying the waste fluid tank

To empty the tank, first remove the stopper from the fluid release tube (on the rear panel of the smart matrix SILENT). Place the tube in an appropriate vessel (one deep enough to capture the fluid as it is flows out). Be sure to securely replace the stopper in the fluid release tube.

Warning:
Do not use recycled cleaning fluid. This could damage the machine or your records.

For cleaning: Remove the cleaning arm by removing the tube and pivoting it back as far as it will go and pulling it upwards. Using the filling funnel supplied to fill 250ml of warm water through the stainless steel tube. Leave the warm water in the waste tank for approximately 20 minutes, then drain it by removing the sealing plug from the drain hose and putting the end of the drain hose into a bowl (or similar). Repeat this process until the water drains clean and does not contain any residue. Please use fresh water for every flushing process.

Please note:
When returning the machine to operation after maintenance, the drain tube must always be closed using the stopper, so that the vacuum pump can generate the required vacuum for suction. This is essential to ensure the full functionality and longevity of your cleaning machine.

Pic. 7: Removing the cleaning- / suction arm

Pic. 8: Insert the filling funnel

We recommend clean the microfibre strips after approx. 30-40 cleaning programs, depending on the condition of the records cleaned. First, remove the cleaning arm as previously described and remove the tube which is connected to it.
Now you can rinse the microfibre strips under running water. Before using the unit again, press the microfibre strips back on again. Microfibre strip lifespan is dependent on use. We recommend changing the microfibre strips after approx. 100 cleaning procedures, though this will depend on the condition of the records cleaned.

If the microfibre strips look worn out, it is recommended that you change them.
To change the microfibre strips, peel them off the vacuum arm and carefully clean the tube with an alcohol-based cleaning fluid. Remove the protective backing from the spare microfibre strips to expose the glue and stick them alongside the suction slot of the vacuum arm. Please take care not to obstruct the suction slot with the microfibre strips.
The smart matrix SILENT should not be used for 24 hours after changing the microfibre strips. The adhesive takes 24 hours to fully dry. If used too soon the strips may not hold properly to the vacuum arm and could damage your records.

Pic. 9: Removing the microfibre stripes
Removing the microfibre stripes

Reservoir for cleaning fluid

The cleaning fluid reservoir has a capacity of approx. 0.4 litres. We recommend that you fill the tank only with Clearaudio cleaning fluids (available at www.analogshop.de) to receive the best cleaning results.

Attention:
Never use foaming cleaning fluid. Use only cleaning fluids approved for record cleaning machines. Never use any aggressive or acid-based fluids with your smart matrix SILENT machine.

Pic. 10: Warning

Warning

To empty the fluid reservoir tank (to ship the unit or to switch the to another liquid) remove the cleaning-/ suction arm as described on page 10.
Put the tube of the cleaning- / suction arm into an appropriate vessel. Hold the button “Liquid” to pump the liquid completely out of the tank.

Pic. 11: Empty the fluid reservoir tank

Troubleshooting

If you have a problem with your smart matrix SILENT, first check the possible causes to rule out incorrect operation.
If the error persists, please contact your dealer!

Never try to open the device and/or repair it yourself, this will void the warranty!

Error Cause Measure
Device does not work Is the power cord plugged in? Check the

connection.
Is the power switch in the correct position?| Check the switch on the back of the device.
There is not enough cleaning

fluid in the machine.

| Refill the fluid.
The cleaning arm is not locked correctly| Press the arm down and ensure that the contacts

in the tonearm are connected.

Record does not rotate during the suction| The clamp was not pressed down properly. Through the suction the record is held in place.| Open the clamp and press firmly with both hands and screw the clamp hand-tight.
Liquid foams when applied| The wrong liquid is used.| Please be sure to follow the instruction in this user manual. Foamy liquids can potentially cause serious damage to your record cleaning unit and the warranty will void.
Little or no used fluid in drain hose| Fluid cannot flow out because there is air in the drain hose.| Remove the stopper to let the air and liquid escape.
There is not enough fluid in the waste fluid tank.| Tilt the unit slightly to allow the fluid to enter the hose.
Due to the alcohol contained and the generated heat during operation, a high part of the used liquid has already evaporated.| Since residues still remain in the collection container, we recommend rinsing the waste fluid tank regularly.
Liquid leaks from the housing| The waste fluid tank was not

emptied in time.

| Empty the waste fluid tank as described in the user manual and let unit dry for a few hours before using it again.

Technical data

Main features:|

  • Bi-directional rotation of the platter
  • Integrated fluid application
  • Very rigid chassis
  • Included record clamp and single adapter
  • Multifunctional cleaning arm for LPs, EPs and singles
  • Easy controls

---|---
Power consumption:| Max. consumption: Approx. 300 watts Off mode: 0 watts (by switching off at the rear of the machine)
Weight:| Approx. 10.6kg
Dimensions W/D/H:| Approx. 13.58 x 13.58 x 9.25 inches (with record clamp) Approx. 13.58 x 13.58 x 9.84 inches (with dustcover)
Dimensions W/D/H:| Approx. 345 x 345 x 235mm (with record clamp) Approx. 345 x 345 x 250mm (with dustcover)
Manufacturer warranty:| 3 years*

WARRANTY

For warranty information, contact your local Clearaudio distributor.
RETAIN YOUR PURCHASE RECEIPT
Your purchase receipt is your permanent record of a valuable purchase. It should be kept in a safe place to be referred to as necessary for insurance purposes or when corresponding with Clearaudio.
IMPORTANT
When seeking warranty service, it is the responsibility of the consumer to establish proof and date of purchase. Your purchase receipt or invoice is adequate for such proof.
FOR U.K. ONLY
This undertaking is in addition to a consumer‘s statutory rights and does not affect those rights in any way.

Customer Support

clearaudio electronic GmbH
Spardorfer Straße 150
91054 Erlangen
Germany
Phone /Tel.: +49 9131 40300 100
Fax: +49 9131 40300 119
www.clearaudio.de
www.analogshop.de
info@clearaudio.de
Handmade in Germany
Clearaudio Electronic accepts no liability for any misprints.
Technical specifications are subject to change or improvement without prior notice.
Product availability is as long as stock lasts.
Copies and reprints of this document, including extracts, require written consent from
Clearaudio Electronic GmbH, Germany.
© clearaudio electronic GmbH, 2022-12 Made in Germany

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References

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