On Wed, 30 Aug 2006 15:30:39 -0500, jakdedert
wrote:

J.P. wrote:
I can get one of these for $200 plus shipping. Is this what I need for
use on a guitar amp building/repair workbench? thanks...J.P.

Very strange question....

Anyone who builds/repairs guitar amps should know the answer.

jak
Nothing strange about it! I am a rookie and am studying about guitar
amps and trying to build a work bench one tool at a time. I have a
Fluke meter and think my next tool should be a tube tester. I have no
clue as to how to use it nor do I have a big wad to buy one with so I
am looking for information instead of just buying something off of
Ebay with no idea of what I am getting. I would appreciate any
information I can get. Thank you...J.P.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++
I'd do a bit more studying first. Most Hickocks are good units. I'm
not personally familiar with the one you cite; but any tube tester that
you buy is probably pretty old and should itself be restored and
calibrated. I'd check eBay for price. There is a fairly limited
number of unique tube types for guitar amps, so substitution is an
viable option to checking (although the output tubes in many amps are
very expensive).

I think I'd look into an audio signal generator, several hundred watt
8/4 ohm dummy load and an oscilloscope first...all of which might cost
you less than $200 and be more useful on a day to day basis. Make sure
you have good soldering tools...a good assortment of hand tools in general.

Another thing which is particularly useful when servicing these big dogs
is some sort of a chassis dolly which allows you to rotate the unit
without picking it up....

jak