Tube Tester


Just replaced vacuum tubes in my amp. Had a power fault. Replaced the whole right channel because I did not know which tubes actually failed.  
 

Brought back up the idea of getting a tube tester. I have searched for them a few times and have a hard time figuring out their differences and quality.

Any of you have recommendations for me on how to navigate a tube tester purchase?

 

Thanks in advance 

pgaulke60

Showing 2 responses by br3098

I've had several tube testers and they all worked pretty well. But they all work and test differently. My problem was that most testers didn't test all of the tube types I was using. I finally settled on a Heathkit TT-1A, based on (but not the same as) the Weston 981-3. I can test just about any tube ever made. Mine was a factory build but many of the home builds are just fine. Like any analog tube tester it pays to either buy a unit that was recently serviced or get it serviced. That makes all the difference and provides confidence and assurance in the test values.

If I had a dealership again or had to test tubes more often I would consider investing in the Space Tech Labs unit.