Questions about required test equipment

[dlucy]

Having read this thread, I am still unclear as to the need for a frequency counter. If I am using an audio frequency signal generator that uses a pointer, how do I know it is accurate, and is exactness that important for tube radios, or SS receivers?

Precision of frequency isn't very important for the audio part of vintage audio gear. If you have an oscillator or signal generator that you can set for 100 Hz, 400 Hz, 1000 Hz, 4000 Hz, 10000 Hz, then you're good. Minor variations between what the pointer and dial says will not make any difference to the audio test you would be running. That said, having a counter looks cool. And satisfies OCD needs (like mine).

When you start talking about RF signals, i.e. AM and FM radio, then THAT is where you'd want a reasonably-accurate signal generator or a signal generator and a frequency counter. The difference between 10.7 MHz and 10.1 MHz makes a BIG difference in operation or performance (just an example). So, if you plan to work on the RF or FM alignment, then you'll need something that will give you good precision. Modern oscilloscopes do this, too, so obviate the need for a frequency counter.

 

[612electric]

Sounds like you on the right track for sure. If in your shoes I might add a variac and maybe upgrade to a super low distortion oscillator IE: Tek SG505 etc and a more accurate distortion analyzer and level meter. Of coarse the list is endless but right now Im thinking about adding 2 different kinds of capacitor checkers, a older Sprague capacitor analyzer for checking leakage on electrolytic caps in tube gear and a ESR checker for newer ones. Also a curve tracer would be nice. As far as a freq counter Ive had them and they are nice but right now my multi-meter will measure freq. to a limited degree. Good LucK!

 

[ChrisMarantz]

If you're looking for a good general purpose Frequency Counter - get a Fluke 1900A

They sell for around $50.00 and are reliable and easy to rebuild when needed. Look for the version without the internal battery option - these versions require the battery be in good working order for the unit to work correctly.

I've had a 1900A for the past 25 years and it has always worked well - Chris

 

[Roy Skinner]

I just ordered the Fluke from e bay. Thanks for such an informative response.

 

[Ray Gianelli]

Nothing is more important than knowing what you are doing.

Bingo.

 

[dlucy]

Bingo.

Well, I’d saying there’s nothing more important than learning.

 

[Ray Gianelli]

Well, I’d saying there’s nothing more important than learning.

Absolutely... because that's the only way to know what you're doing. Nobody is born with the ability to fix this stuff; it was all learned. And there's no better place I've found to learn than here.

 

[Ray Gianelli]

So @dlucy and I had a brief exchange as seen above. I think it brought up an important point in regard to test equipment.

Test equipment, at its core, simply extends our senses so we can see/measure things that we normally could not. However, we need to be able to interpret what it shows us. That's where the knowledge and learning comes in. As we delve into this journey, there's the urge to get all the tools or toys we can. Not all are necessary.

When I was a working musician (I no longer am, due to my work schedule. Should really change my avatar) I met many diverse musicians. I met guys who had the latest and greatest guitars, amps and effects processors money could buy. Some were mediocre at best. Conversely, I met guys with a beat up guitar and amp who just blew me away. It was a good life lesson.

At the end of the day there's not a lot of stuff you really need to fix this stuff. One of the most amazing techs I ever met had just a meter... and not a digital multimeter either, an analog multimeter. But he really knew his ****. The bench or the test equipment doesn't make the tech. It's their knowledge and experience.

I'm not trying to discourage anyone from buying test gear; anyone who's seen a picture of my bench knows I've bought a ton of stuff. Much of it was simply purchased for the future, in case I get laid off or after I'm retired and have less disposable income.

To the OP: no need to rush out and buy a bunch of stuff. As you progress and learn you'll find out what you really need. You may need multi kilobuck distortion analyzers, you may not. Only you will be able to answer that question. While I believe in quality tools, your situation may be different than mine. Be patient, @z-adamson . The next amp on your bench may well tell you what you need next.

EDIT: Another thing that comes to mind is that after you gain experience you will be better able to separate want from need... actually, that applies any time you crack your wallet. I know once I was able to separate want from need in my everyday spending my financial situation improved dramatically.