Can anyone recommend a good oscilloscope? I need one for tape head azimuth adjustment, and maybe other uses. I have no idea what to look for.
Tape head adjustments can use just about any scope available.
One doesn’t need many features for this and the scope can be as low as a 5 or 10mhz bandwidth.
You’re simply trying to adjust the output waveform to be as true as what you’re sending it.
A square wave is usually preferred in this case.
If you need a scope to do digital troubleshooting, compare things, capture quick pulses or perform phase adjustments you’ll then need a better scope with dual traces and good bandwidth.
I prefer Tektronix scopes, but there’s many others out there.
Finally, don’t skimp on using the correct probe(s.)
They are more important than you might think.
A straight connection, say from a 1/4" to the BNC on the scope is useful for many things, but can introduce capacitance that can skew or alter your waveform, especially if it has edges.
I use straight connections only for DC work like offset adjustments.
If viewing a waveform or troubleshooting, use the proper probe recommended for your scope.
What brand/model is recommended if I were just looking for a dual lead scope for measuring/viewing and comparing waveforms of DC voltages used in analog synths? I know you said Tektronics, Kevin but is there a basic model released in the 80’s that is a available on eBay for a hundred or a few hundred dollars?
I have a probe that I use for DC circuit board now (Oszifox) and it’s good for logic/board work on my circa 1980 electronics (primarily 1st generation Pinball machine CPU boards) but I suppose for calibration purposes accuracy is important?
Thanks.