I just bought the VPI 16.5 cleaner ($429 at Red Trumpet w/free shipping) and
was hoping someone can help.

I've read so many great reviews about this product and have to admit I feel a
bit let down with the results I've experienced so far.

It is easy to use and the records I've cleaned so far LOOK much better, but I
honestly didn't notice much of a reduction in surface noise on most of the LPs
I cleaned.

My test LPs ranged from hard rock to classical, and I was expecting to hear a
dramatic difference on the classical records. I tried records that looked bad
and others that appeared to be in great shape before cleaning, and still hear
clicks, pops, and background noise.

I tried both the included VPI cleaner and the RRL fluid they threw in as a
bonus.

I'm not an audio expert by any means and was wondering if maybe my
cartridge/stylus may be the culprit?

I have a 20-year old Sansui turntable that WAS decent at the time, but hasn't
seen a lot of use in recent years. I'm pretty sure the cartridge has been
replaced at least once over that time, and I did clean it.

Any help would be appreciated - thanks!