I'm buying an oscilloscope - looking for recommendations.

[RacerR]

I'm planning to buy an oscilloscope.  I'm looking specifically at the Tektronix 2235 (100Mhz, 2Channel), though I haven't made any final decisions yet.

I'm pretty new to DIY electronics, so I'd like to make sure the scope I buy will do what I want it to do.  My primary interest is in audio circuits, both digital and analog.

Is there any obvious reason to not choose the Tektronix 2235 for tinkering with audio circuits?

Thanks, any information provided is appreciated.

-R

[RacerR]

I've been reading other threads on this topic.  It seems like a PC based solution may be the best choice for what I want to do - I'm looking into different options now.

[mistahead]

I will search shortly but I think there was a comprehensive discussion about the shortcomings of using sound card based scope solutions...

The real killer if I recall was bandwidth / range down in the 50khz area - gah - this was at least two years back..

[PRR]

A Tektronix 2235 is FAR better than any 'scope I've ever used over many decades of audio abuse.

Don't over-pay for a 'scope. Most audio can be done with 500KC (0.5MHz) 'scopes. Dual-channel is a nice frill but I've gone years not-bothering to fix my second probe.

Be sure it works. If you don't know how to use a 'scope, buying a 'scope with problems just leads to confusion and a large lump for the trash.

That said, Tektronix 2235 prices seem to be very good value for a VERY good 'scope. If you can't find my HP 120 for $5 (large hole in lid but it works), the 2235 is a fine choice. And it may hold resale value for a few years. (But not forever: I nearly held some fine film-cameras too long, long-enough to see prices fall through the floor for all but the MOST desirable models.)

[Seljer]

I will search shortly but I think there was a comprehensive discussion about the shortcomings of using sound card based scope solutions...

The real killer if I recall was bandwidth / range down in the 50khz area - gah - this was at least two years back..

For sound cards thats true, but plenty of the USB scopes actually do have proper multi-MHz bandwidth, the unit just does the AD conversion and triggering, the computer is there just to do the storage/display/signal processing part.

I've got a $300 Rigol and am happy with it, it stays turned on my bench practically all the time. Having a digital scope is great for the quick measurement capabilities.

[mistahead]

Misunderstood the question - that piece of kit is awesome.

I am still leaning towards the standalone for the set-and-forget aspect of setting it up and just using until the next move, but my purchase is a bit off yet - OP is itching to spend his scratch!   

[psychedelicfish]

If it weren't for the fact that you're pretty new to this, I'd suggest getting an old valve scope like I did

[psychedelicfish]

mine needs a few things fixed, but they are pretty reliable, and the schematics are always there if fixing is necessary

[mistahead]

I've got one of the best old antique tools and audio warehouses nearby... just keep using the beer tickets before getting there gah.

Lots of bakelite with original tubes to be pawed over - possibly a good source if I could get one in working order... IF.