SPL METER? ATI OR RADIO SHACK

Go with the Rat Shack digital meter [I don't know if they still make the analog meter]. Make sure that the 9V battery is fresh, since a weak battery will affect your readings.

Also, Rives make a frequency response test CD with two set of tests. One set of tests has been specifically recorded to compensate for inaccuracies in the Rat Shack meter [Note: I am not affiliated with, nor do I have any financial interest in either of these two companies!]

I think that the Rat Shack unit is really easy to use and fun, too! I showed the landscapers why they were smart to use ear protection while operating their wood chipper....peak readings of 109 dB!

I just received a mint RS analog version I bought on EBAY for around $28. The desirable analog version is:Radio Shack Analog Sound Level Meter, #33-2050. I believe there are currently several more listed on EBAY.

Go for the RS analog version...

I have both of the RS models, I currently only use the analog one as the dog ate the digital one, and it is kind of pointy to use.... It does still work though!

The analog is more useful to me since I can get a better sense for the relative rate and amount of change in db during a test. It is the same reason auto makers finally backed off on digital dash guages. They just don't convey the data as usefully.