Distortion meters

S

Soundslave

Member
hope this is the right place to ask this?
I have a chance to buy a Leader LMD 171 or a HP 334a. Any thoughts on which is the better one the price is about the same $60. Are these good for audio testing today as they are both a bit old. Thanks

Bob
 
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HP is world class but may need cal as may the other one.
They only test THD, total harmonic distortion.
HP if cal'd is the better one and will do today the same as it did when new, if calibrated.
for GP audio testing you need a scope, AC RMS voltmeter, audio function generator signla source, DMM for volts, ohms, amps and such things.
then u have a Basic audio test bench, very basic.
 
The HP does not have a built in oscillator, so you will need a separate low distortion audio oscillator. I'm not familiar with the Leader, but it doesn't look like it has an oscillator either. Don't be fooled by the output jacks on either. They are for looking at the distortion residual signal.

Terry
 
I would bide my time and look for something more sophisticated. While both of these are auto-nulling units,neither one has outstanding specs or features,although the HP (as usual) gets the ''built like a tank and will outlive all of us'' vote:)

They will both require a good quality outboard signal generator in order to perform accurate measurements,and that means more money,time lost finding one(and maybe also restoring it),and less space on your bench.

What it really comes down to is exactly what environment do you wish use this in? If you are a hobbyist and just want to get your feet wet,I would try to find something like an Amber 3501 or similar,which has an onboard signal generator,auto-nulling,and although a manual machine,is very easy to operate and has phenomenal performance specs for it's age.Not hard to find,and usually not too expensive either.
 
The Leader 171 is a great unit. Beautifully made. For that price, it is an absolute bargain. They were over AU$1500 when they were sold here. I have one on my bench and it still sees use regularly.

They have a bullletproof front end, 100v mV meter and the auto nulling is great.

You can always use a high grade CD player and a test disc to generate low distortion signals until you can afford or find a low distortion sig gen.
 
Same idiot is also listing one for $2000. Neither one comes with the power supply. !?!?!:crazy:
 
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