Precision 10-12 tube tester opinions

[CruzBay]

Hi folks, I've had this tester forever, and it continues to function well.

I'm interested in knowing where it fits in the pantheon of tube testers; some of you own several.

Yes. I've Googled, it looks like a standard emission tester, but is that all? What's "Electronamic" mean? Marketing?

What's the 'cat's ass' of tube testers?

When selecting used tubes for any of my gear, putting tubes that measure nearly the same in complementary pairs seems to work well. Whose tester could be used to match tubes?

TIA.

Mike

 

[jaymanaa]

Matching is a whole nuther game. I use a mutual conductance tester to pair up close tubes, them match them in the circuit they will be used in by current. Precision made very good testers.:yes:

 

[bhamham]

What's the 'cat's ass' of tube testers?

...Neuberger 400 used at Telefunken factory.

 

[ferninando]

for the earthbound man Hickok is generally regarded as among the best. and they are readilly available in one model or another.

 

[CruzBay]

Matching is a whole nuther game. I use a mutual conductance tester to pair up close tubes, them match them in the circuit they will be used in by current. Precision made very good testers.:yes:

Who makes (made) a mutual conductance tester?

Hickok?

Oh, thanks for the real world response above.

 

[perchdog]

i have a precision 640... don't know to much about testers but it seems to work good and impression i get is the precision testers are well regarded.

 

[bhamham]

Who makes (made) a mutual conductance tester?
Hickok?
Oh, thanks for the real world response above.

Jay has the right idea... matching the current is critical and IMO more important than getting mutual conductance (Gm) matched - although you'd want it close as possible.

Here's a good article on selecting a tester:
http://www.alltubetesters.com/articles/tester_guide.htm

Although, he leaves out the Heathkit TT-1A which is a terrific tester and well regarded. It tests at a higher voltage than Hickoks, can test 4-pins to compactrons, and came as a kit - which is good & bad. The bad is that some sloppy amateurs did poor jobs on them - the good is that there's plenty of DIY information to service and calibrate them. Plus, they aren't as well known as Hickoks/TV-7s/Triplett 3444s so can be had at a decent price.

Good luck with your search - hope you find a good one.