This depends upon whether you just want to test the tubes, or whether you want to match them. If you just want to test them, then something like the Jackson 648 series will do a good job--and it is very easy to use. For this tester you will need the additional "Special Tube data", as the 2A3 is not on the roll (at least not on mine). If you want to match the tubes, you will need a mutual conductance tester. These are more complicated and more expensive. I am sure there are good alternatives to the 648. I just suggest this model because I have one, it is very easy to use, and it does a nice job. In addition, they are not usually too expensive.
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If you can get more than one, email me. I've been looking, and prices are going the way of NOS tubes. The Transcendent Tube Analyzer is something I have been looking at, because it will test about everything, and if I am going to spend that kind of money it looks like the way to go, because it does this: The Transcendent Tube Analyzer provides the tube parameters needed for your exact application. A tube's operating characteristics can be accurately determined for your specific circuit or equipment. The heart of the Analyzer is a sophisticated adjustable power supply utilizing a tube-based differential amplifier. It can be set from 300 volts all the way down to 0 volts. Voltage adjustment is made through a 10 turn potentiometer for very precise settings. Many tubes can be operated with as little as 25 volts on the plate and the Tube Analyzer allows for the determination of these parameters at these and other voltage levels. The ability to set the operating point virtually anywhere allows circuit designer or hobbyist to be able to understand exactly how the tube is operating and take advantage of this knowledge in the design or operation of a circuit. I know it does a little more than you are looking for, but I think it may be the way to go for me. Just thought I'd pass it on. |
If you can get more than one, email me. I've been looking, and prices are going the way of NOS tubes. The Transcendent Tube Analyzer is something I have been looking at, because it will test about everything, and if I am going to spend that kind of money it looks like the way to go.\ because it does this: The Transcendent Tube Analyzer provides the tube parameters needed for your exact application. A tube's operating characteristics can be accurately determined for your specific circuit or equipment. The heart of the Analyzer is a sophisticated adjustable power supply utilizing a tube-based differential amplifier. It can be set from 300 volts all the way down to 0 volts. Voltage adjustment is made through a 10 turn potentiometer for very precise settings. Many tubes can be operated with as little as 25 volts on the plate and the Tube Analyzer allows for the determination of these parameters at these and other voltage levels. The ability to set the operating point virtually anywhere allows circuit designer or hobbyist to be able to understand exactly how the tube is operating and take advantage of this knowledge in the design or operation of a circuit. I know it does a little more than you are looking for, but I think it may be the way to go for me. Just thought I'd pass it on. |
KK, It is made by Transcendent Sound, so I think so. For comparison, there is a Hickok here for $595 + shipping, and everything on it doesn't work! I figure if you (or I) am going to buy one, why not get a new one, instead of a 30 year old one for similar $$$.  I read on the OTL board at AA that Atma-Sphere is kicking arount the idea of offering one at the same price point. Problem here is it will probably be A-S specific, meaning 12ax7 & 6as7 mainly. So I think this price is pretty good. Vacuum Tube Valley also has one, but it is $749, and only tests preamp tubes.  Amplitrex Audio Products also manufactures new testers, but this one costs over 2 grand! Looks pretty nice, but 2 grand? Again, this one will do about any tube out there, but 2 grand!  IMHO the Transcendent is the way to go. SInce this year I plan to build an entirely new system (I mean build literally, as in Audio Note kits) building a tester shouldn't be too hard. And, as much as I play with tubes, this one looks like the best bet. Hope this helps, Joe |
Joe, How did you get pictures on the text at Audiogon? I have been trying to do that but without success. Anyway, if money is the issue, I think in the mean time I can simply ask dealers to check my tubes (I have only three pairs of 2a3). Building a tester? Are you sure? When you find the circuit design, kindly pass it along, thanks! KK |