new meter choices

icky wrote:This subject has been covered, but I am in the market for a new VOM or a VTVM , and I need capacitance testing function. I was wondering if a separate cap meter would be preferable over the meters with it included as a function? I also consider older equipment, i.e., gently used, no longer made, EICO,Sencore, or B&K. Also, is it worth having a cap decade or substitution box?. Having recent problems with my VTA ST-70 and some other issues with my other audio components I'm looking to improve my diagnostic ability with a test equipment purchase.    Thanks, Jeff

PeterCapo wrote:Although, the capacitance measuring function of many (if not most) multimeters can be limited, in particular, even LCR meters can have trouble measuring in the low pf range if your purpose is to verify the values of some of the smaller-value caps in these amps.

In any case, have a look at the following models from Radio Shack: catalog #s 22-075 and 22-087.  I have a similar predecessor model (catalog number 22-812), and it is really a pretty good meter.  I brought it to a local electronics facility that calibrates highfalutin equipment for area companies, including an aerospace company where a friend works. They tested all settings and ranges of this meter and no calibration was necessary - everything was in-spec.

I looked for decade boxes a while back but couldn't find one for a reasonable cost that was rated for enough power to use in a Dynaco amp (for testing purposes).

sKiZo wrote:Hard to beat Tenma for value ... I think I paid $60 for mine and it does everything I want it to.

Trick for testing capacitance is to keep the probe leads as short as possible. My meter came with a special pair just for that.