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Tube tester recommendation!

Is there an inexpensive (but accurate) tube tester that one can buy? Here on Agon sometimes? Through a merchant? Amazon? Ebay?

Tubes can be expensive and I want to get every bit I can from them but once they begin to go I'd like to have the means to validate that (sometimes I think my hearing may be the issue :-))

Thank you!  
rbschauman
hifijunky
126 posts
 
Hickok testers are considered the best but can be very expensive,
I have a Eico 667 which is popular and can be had on Ebay for about $200. Since these units are 50 to 60 years old they may updating and mods. There is lots info on the web.
gdnrbob
4,458 posts
 
I just asked Ralph Karsten the same question. He also recommended Hickok testers, but said they would run $800-2K or so.
BTW- he offers tube testing for a modest price-which is what I am going to do, as I don't think I am going to need to test that many tubes.
Bob
rodman99999
6,171 posts
 
Testers also require occasional recalibration, which will probably be necessary, if you buy one via eBay, craigslist, etc.  Another option for having them tested, should you choose not to spring for a tester: http://tctubes.com/tube-testing-service.aspx
rbschauman OP
138 posts
 
Thanks for the responses fellas. I'll look at the Hickok testers but in the meantime I really like the idea Rodman put forth. Think I'll use that in the near if not longer especially with them being a neighboring state!

Thanks again, appreciate the help!
tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,601 posts
 
Here’s a link to some info about picking a tube tester. This site appears to be current although I heard that Roger had some health problems a while back

http://www.alltubetesters.com/articles/tester_guide.htm

Also if you want to test tubes from the 6DJ8/6922/7308 family you will need a military tester like the TV-7.  For some reason many testers can't handle these tubes.
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