Among the "favorites" are the TV/7, the various Hickok models, And the AVO. I have a TV/7 B model which some consider the industry standard. It is fairly easy to use. You should be able to pick one up for $300 to $450, depending on cosmetics.
My favorite is the Hickok 752A, which is large, extremely easy to use, and preforms most readings that I need. I've seen these go for up to $550 on eBay, though you should be able to buy one in the $350 to $400 range.
I don't own a Hickok Card-A-Matic, however my friend does. Wow! What a tester! You simply install a data card (holes punched into a plastic card about 3" by 5"), which set all tube parameters for you! These are quite expensive. A perfect, recently calibrated military model with a complete set of cards will set you back around $800 to $1K! Those that have them love them, my friend would never part with his.
I have no experience with the AVO tube testers, but have heard that they are very nice, and can give you a much broader example of where the tube tests at different bias current, etc. Quite expensive!
Where to buy? I'd place a wanted ad right here!
My favorite is the Hickok 752A, which is large, extremely easy to use, and preforms most readings that I need. I've seen these go for up to $550 on eBay, though you should be able to buy one in the $350 to $400 range.
I don't own a Hickok Card-A-Matic, however my friend does. Wow! What a tester! You simply install a data card (holes punched into a plastic card about 3" by 5"), which set all tube parameters for you! These are quite expensive. A perfect, recently calibrated military model with a complete set of cards will set you back around $800 to $1K! Those that have them love them, my friend would never part with his.
I have no experience with the AVO tube testers, but have heard that they are very nice, and can give you a much broader example of where the tube tests at different bias current, etc. Quite expensive!
Where to buy? I'd place a wanted ad right here!