9 MOST ESSENTIAL TOOLS for Tube Guitar Amp Maintenance and Repair

In this video we will look at the essential tools you must have in order to repair 95% of all broken tube guitar amplifiers. This is NOT a list of all the tools you may need in every situation, but rather the bare essentials. I have taken pains to find items that balance features and quality with price. If you plan on doing guitar amp work and don't have something on this list, get it because you'll need it.
kit.com/TheGuitologist/tube-a...
Essential Tools:
RCA Tube Manual: amzn.to/2zS47aV
Variable Transformer: amzn.to/2Ad4KwX
Digital Multimeter: amzn.to/2zQUXeK
Soldering Iron Kt: amzn.to/2iwrq0m
Wire Strippers/Crimpers: amzn.to/2hNeGFT
Wire Cutters: amzn.to/2hCQJx0
Needlenose Pliers: amzn.to/2B4iBCS
Rosin Core Solder: amzn.to/2ixQFzu
Contact Cleaner: amzn.to/2hQkXAp

[@stevecerri973]

Hey man, love your videos! This is a great list. The one thing I would add to it is something you can buy the parts for, but also have to make: a cap discharge tool - you know, basically a resistor hooked up to a test lead that you hook up the other side to ground to drain those filter caps before putting your hands anywhere near anything inside the amp. Mine is a resistor soldered to a wire with an alligator clip and has heat shrink tubing all around it. Simple to make, but effective for safety so I would say It's necessary! Keep the videos coming dude

[@Yupppi]

Great video. One thing missing is the cap discharge tool. I remember you built a simple one in some video, but can't for the life of me remember where and the search turns up nothing.

[@audiotechlabs4650]

Great video Brad! As a seasoned tech I dare say you would end up over time acquiring many more tools and supplies not covered here from necessity. You are one of the few who post service videos on tube amps and we need more people getting into the field. A basic set of tools and test equipment is vital to repair/service tube/SS amps and you did a great job sourcing where to find them. By the way, I have my Grandpa's safety razor and am using it after watching your video on that. You do much more than your normal tube jock! Good down to earth knowledge of being smart and thrifty. Love ya. Thankz

[@TheGuitologist]

As always, I appreciate your comments. Thanks for them.

[@rodneykroetsch2924]

Good video Brad! I started learning and teaching myself about amp and guitar repair in the early 90's. Your advice is sage and sound for those wanting to delve-into it!!

[@orgillmathew]

This is why I love KZbin, great Vlog thx 🤘

[@wildbillhackett]

In my case, a fire extinguisher and the fire department and ambulance service on speed dial would undoubtedly come in handy as well. Oh, and a mini fridge with some cold Snickers bars would be a must.

[@Left4Rage]

Great video, simple and very informative.

[@supafish93]

Was doing some (first time) repairs on my Hot Rod Deluxe a month or so ago and ended up grabbing that Neoteck multimeter. Glad I got some guitologist approved equipment! Also watching your channel a lot really helped me understand what the hell I was doing inside that thing! She's working good as new though now!

[@LEgoiste]

Thanks for doing this, great advice.

[@scramblesthedeathdealer]

Great video, Brad! I think I'm going to continue learning about amplifier repair, I have an Egnater Tweaker 15 head that blew a tube or two, my first chance to learn something 👍

[@anthonyz7000]

There was an ad at the beginning of this video that I made sure to watch completely through to the end and clicked on the advertiser link. A small gesture (in light of your next video about being de-monetized, or partially de-montetized, on this video for what are apparently the dumbest of reasons), but maybe helpful? Keep up the great work. Your channel is incredibly entertaining and informative.

[@capitanvonchickenpants8492]

Excellent video

[@stevehogan8829]

Thanks... Very helpful. It's very easy to spend way more than necessary on some of this stuff and still not get what you need.

[@EvertGuzman]

I personally use a hakko soldering iron the fx-888d it still is going strong

[@thats2kewl]

Hi Brad, good video. I think the number one tool is a good brain...with an understanding of electrical circuits and a healthy respect for the danger associated with working with them. That being said, another great (and safety conceous) device is a homemade current limiter (like the one Uncle Doug made and showed in his videos). Since the VariAC that we use (like the one you have) is non-isolating, I think it is an extremely important addition.

[@TheGuitologist]

That would make a nice, round Top 10. Good call.

[@TheGuitologist]

The variac I use has a quirk... If there is a short and too much current is being drawn, a distinct vibration starts in the unit, warning you something is not right. When you're only dialed up maybe 20V or something, it's usually not enough to damage anything. Also, you can replace the 5A fuse in your variac with a 1A or 2A fuse depending on your equipment, and that will blow before whatever you're working on. OR...you can just do as you said and make yourself and cheap and easy Uncle Doug current limiter. :D

[@thats2kewl]

The Guitologist Hi, yup...I've watched your videos and seen your quirk...in the VariAC that is!! I have the exact same VariAC and have never had that "shimmy"...although it did smoke once before it blew the fuse!! Also, YOU KNOW about that quirk and when to stop... I don't know that others (especially beginners, which your video was meant for) would have the same "feel" for things as you do. I have seen people do some pretty scary (and dumb) stuff in my life, so any simple "Murphy Proofing" is good in my book...especially without the "Cat scan" and "sniff test" capabilities that Uncle Doug had!!

[@nautn]

Thanks. Very informative.

[@eddiegeorge4047]

awesome Brad thanks a million !

[@boxploy]

Good video. I planing on replacing all wax caps on my bx6 globe trotterr made by rca so this video is perfect

[@EmbelekoBand]

Thank you so much for this helpful info. This is beyond a great video. Thanks again.

[@TheGuitologist]

Thanks, Gil.

[@mischef18]

Great video

[@francisskundaliny1295]

hey,brad! very help full vid- thx for that! rockn rolly!!!

[@bullwhipjohnson8247]

I've had a Tenma solder station for years. A brand new one probably won't last as long as one that's been repaired. I bought a reconditioned Tenma solder station and Variac from MCM Electronic Supply when they were located here in Dayton Ohio. They've since moved down the road to Springboro Ohio. But you can still walk in to their Will Call pickup counter and they usually have many reconditioned items for sale. They're cheaper, work better and last longer than brand tools and equipment. Just because they've been repaired and had the defects corrected.

[@charris939]

Some simple cheap things I use too are scissor clamps, xuron micro flush shears, mini needle nose pliers, home made current limiter ( I haven't bought a Variac yet) capacitor voltage draining lead and rubber gloves. I agree with you on the weller and other mid priced soldering irons. Sometimes it is better value to buy cheap ones as they don't seem to last very well any more maybe something to do with where they are made. Anyhow, a good list.

[@dannyd.8860]

Thanks for this list, and to everyone who's made further suggestions. Very helpful for novices like me just getting started. FWIW, I use a Weller WTCPT iron that used to be my dad's. It's got to be 30+ years old. Works like a champ.

[@TheGuitologist]

+Danny DeTora an older one is the way to go, I think.

[@akachurak]

Nice video bud!

[@martinreid1740]

I love your videos and have great respect for both you and Terry from D Lab.

[@TheGuitologist]

+Martin Reid Terry's a great tech. We sub each other's channels.

[@rodneykroetsch2924]

I agree...Terry is the madman genius. I like your style also Brad. I have the utmost respect for you, taking the time in putting out truly educating as well as entertaining videos... You have made me laugh so many times... Your guitar playing is quite good and makes me realize how much more I have to learn.

[@TheGuitologist]

+Rodney Kroetsch glad I could elicit some joviality in such a bleak and unfeeling world. :D

[@TheGuitologist]

+Rodney Kroetsch glad I could elicit some joviality in such a bleak and unfeeling world. :D

[@kenfoland]

+The Guitologist Hi Brad! I have my variac plugged into an isolation transformer with floating earth. A variac alone does not provide galvanic isolation. Also, I use Thermaltronics RF soldering stations (similar to Metcal). They have a huge thermal capacity when proper, interchangeable tips are used. I've never had an occasion where it could not provide enough heat, even on 6-layer PCBs with huge internal ground planes.

[@PLINKER]

Thanks a lot man !!

[@JanneOksanen]

Great video. I especially love how you didn't get all gear snob about the tools.

[@TheGuitologist]

I'm the most frugal person I know.

[@Scodiddly]

This is a tricky recommendation, because it's something that's hard/impossible to buy new, but.... a tube tester is kind of useful when working on tube amps.

[@bevo65]

LOL, just in time. Thanks in part to your videos, I bought a variac and an oscilloscope about two weeks ago. Also, you forgot CHOPSTICKS!

[@Ian_Hay]

Hey Brad - Great video. Very helpful. One thing I think might have been helpful on the topic of multimeters: a bit of a discussion on when and why to go for a cheap one (like the $19 multimeter you showed in the video) vs a top-of-the-line one, e.g, the high end $300-400 Fluke you appear to use a lot in your own work. What are the trade offs, feature 'nice to haves', accuracy concerns, etc. Obviously, the $19 multimeter would be perfectly adequate for a lot of the electronics diagnostic work in amp repair, but what kinds of considerations did you have when choosing the expensive Fluke? No need for an EEVBlog-level tech rant, but just a quick bit along those lines would be helpful context for electronics newbies.

[@ianhughes100]

For soldering irons, I have nothing but good things to say about the Solomon SR-965 from StewMac for $15. I've gone through multiple tips and the iron itself works perfectly fine with over 3 years of use so far. Get the pencil tips for PCB/pedal work and the chisel tip for guitar pots/amp work.

[@zummliller]

Outstanding! What you say about a vac tube volt meter and ...the oscilloscope...appreciate your great stuff!!

[@electroKrunch]

I'm recently getting back into messing with amps at 55, hadn't done anything since my 20's and that was minimal. I lean hard on your info, Brad. Thanks so much for your videos! My last soldering station I bought was an import version of a Hakko or something. It's labeled as a TekPower936D. I've used it little, are you familiar with it?

[@matthewf1979]

I’m finally breaking down to buy an oscilloscope. The selection is mind blowing these days.

[@joeycigar63]

Hello Brad Between you and my two other favorite guys on you tube, I've been able to elevate myself from "being a danger to myself" when it comes to this stuff, to that of "knowing slightly more than a rank amateur." Crazy for you vids on guitar amps especially the older point-to-point ones; your knowledge of the subject is amazing and you're one hell of a player as well. One question relevant to this video, how much amperage do I need in a variac for what I intend to do, probably no more than tinkering with and studying my old 135 watt Fender Twin and possibly building a Tweed or Deluxe Reverb clone. At 65, learning about tubes has become one more of my numerous hobbies. Keep the vids coming and Happy Holidays. Thanks and regards, JC.

[@TheGuitologist]

5A

[@eksund1900]

Nice video. However I think you missed a few cheap diy tools. A current limiter using a bulb, that will prevent you to get more than a few hundred watts in to your project. Second, a tool to discharge the caps. Besides that - a Weller that stop working?? I have one that still is going strong after more than 40 years, and you can still buy temperature controlled tip:s for it.

[@SpringDivers]

I use an American Beauty soldering iron for point to point wiring and a Hako work station iron for PCB assembly work and re-work.

[@marcchristopher6009]

Brad, I purchased the tools you recommended here... can you possibly give a quick video on setting up and using the soldering kit? (ie. first time use, proper tinning, use of the desoldering pump, proper tip cleaning, proper heat setting, etc?)

[@aquilarossa5191]

A dummy load? I see most techs make their own tho. Scope because it's nice seeing that wave form every time I have had my amp in. I like seeing the point it clips etc. yeah, not essential, but nice. The other thing is a tube tester. I have a pair of old Sylvania 6Ca7s here that were good, but not sure if they survived the flight back from Canada in my luggage. I am disabled and have have trouble getting around, so i am trying to think up of something i can do from home. Thought about amps because I have changed tubes, caps and resistors, and even an OT before, but here in New Zealand there are not enough customers to make it viable, at least not with just amp repair. Better off fixing smart phones because everybody has those. Meh to that. trouble with services is people need them but do not want to pay much for it. Sooner pay for new than repair something.

[@scotthewitt6047]

I bought that soldering iron you showed 60 watt worked great built my first 5e3 with it.

[@TheGuitologist]

Cool. Are the tips holding up ok? And how is the solder sucker in that package? Does it work ok? Sometimes the cheap suckers don't work at all.

[@cantyouhearmeknocking1961]

@@TheGuitologist Yeah, I married one of those..

[@Robert-xn3jb]

Sencore PR570. Seriously, you need one of these. Hakko desoldering gun. Tube tester. Scope and audio generator. Fluke infrared thermometer. Dummy load. Sencore capacitor tester with high voltage leak test and esr meter. Benchtop smoke absorber. Some sort of magnifier to spot cracked solder joints......

[@jasont.9559]

Books! You've mentioned a list of good electronic/amplification books in the comment section of a video one time, hell if I can find it now. It would be cool if you pinned that list to the top of this comment section or put it in the description. Knowledge is the most powerful tool!

[@TheGuitologist]

Design and Construction of Tube Guitar Amplifiersamzn.to/2zW8Jgt Designing Tube Preamps for Guitar and Bass, 2nd Edition amzn.to/2jamvSm

[@chungaleta1234]

A fire extinguisher in case you are working on Bugeras! LOL.... Sorry sorry, i just had to.

[@TheGuitologist]

haha. Whatever you're working on, a fire extinguisher is a good one to have.

[@russellhltn1396]

I'd suggest finding a CO2 extinguisher. That should quell the fire while still leaving something salvageable. if you use a standard ABC, you'll have a royal mess the clean up. I'd also strongly suggest a remote switch for the bench, so you can kill power. Just doing that would go a long way to putting the fire out.

[@howardrose8481]

I’d recommend a small clip-on fan for the bench area. Breathing clean air is a good idea.

[@georgekrabs6948]

I liked the ETS music at the end Brad you should play more in your vids mate.

[@TheGuitologist]

Thanks for noticing. My playing would get boring pretty quickly, so I'd rather hold it in reserve.

[@kenwhelan976]

Thanks..Im one who appreciates your opinion

[@CrimFerret]

Lead solder definitely flows better at lower temps. Smaller gauge also melts faster and I think gives me more control. As far as a multimeter, get a decent quality one. Working on tube equipment means you'll be dealing with some higher voltages and you want a meter that can do that safely both for you and the equipment. Fluke and B&K come to mind. Yes they cost more, but you only have to buy them once. A decent multimeter really makes working on electronics a better experience all around. After seeing what's inside and what isn't inside (like protective fuses in some cases) some cheap and sometimes not so cheap knock off Chinese ones, I wouldn't bother. I've also heard Weller has gone way downhill in quality. I still have my old cheap Radio Shack soldering iron and solder sucker. It's still going strong and for discreet components it's always worked fine.

[@bigyin.7710]

Hi Brad, only started watching your vids a few months ago. What initially got you interested in electronics and how long did it take to gain the superb knowledge that you have? Paul, Liverpool, England.

[@TheGuitologist]

Thanks for the question, Paul. I get asked that a lot. Maybe I'll save that one for a shit post Friday vid.

[@BeansMaskSheen]

magnifying and clamp setup for micro soldering or tight stuff

[@anthonywatson754]

Good video, Brad. I'm just starting out in the tube hobby myself. What are your thoughts on tube testers?

[@TheGuitologist]

Don't waste your money on one of the new Orange jobs. Get a vintage one. Lots of them out there reasonably priced. might need some servicing, but they are nice to have. Most tube issues can be found by other means though.

[@utubehound69]

Thanks for the list. Great stuff Uncle Doug would be proud.

[@TheGuitologist]

Thanks. I appreciate that.

[@spearheadmusicservice]

I love Uncle Doug’s videos. He hasn’t put one out in a while.

[@jasonp9373]

Brad, in some of your repair videos you have some sort of digital screen attached to your variac that displays volts, amps, etc. What is this nifty and useful screen that you are using to augment your repair rig?

[@PhuketMyMac]

Hi Brad, Are there some capacitors/resistors kits with the most common ones that we can buy at once instead of going mouser/Digi key every single time? Thanks!

[@ogo2l]

What do you use or need to discharge the capacitors?

[@koolade76]

Oscilloscope 2nd hand or a software one usb probes and valve/tube tester are two I’d add.

[@killitwithfire2321]

If you were going to recommend a school program to get started in this line of work what would it be? I haven't found any programs that teach amp repair so I'm wondering where a good place to start would be.

[@russellhltn1396]

Maybe not a first-round item, but a scope can be handy for seeing where the signal stops. There's a multitude of cheap scopes that will do fine for audio work. And a ESR meter would be nice too.

[@TheGuitologist]

I would actually put a signal tracer above a scope. ESR meter would be a good one too. I still don't own one of those.

[@bartnettle]

Burnt out a couple of irons. Whats the story? Why arent they lasting? Good advice, cheers

[@francisskundaliny1295]

hey,brad! ive ask you why you have in america " only 110voltage in your main power systems?in austria we have 380voltage is named"starkstrom" for stronger machines&220v -230/240v for the normaly systems ! you know why ? thx&rockn rolly!

[@MarkTillotson]

Seems a good selection except I am sceptical about the RCA manual being essential - these days pretty much any tube datasheet can be googled and the valve museum and other similar sites pop up and seem to have extensive coverage. Back in the day you used to need books full of data on semiconductors, but I not seen a printed datasheet in decades, and my old IT TTL databook is used as a doorstop, not a reference work!

[@CHAOSMOVEMENT]

Any need for an oscilloscope? I know a lot of the techs I've done business with in the past have had them.

[@PhuckHue2]

you also need a capacitor tester that tests ESR. they are cheap on ebay

[@donaldfilbert4832]

I was thinking a capacitor tester might belong with the minimum list of tools. I see on your other videos that you use one of those 12864 based Transistor Testers (also LCR tester - Inductance; Capacitance; and Resistance). I am wondering if you think the ESR and Leakage measurements of the capacitance testing function are accurate? Most Cap leakage testers are old tube devices that measure leakage at very high voltages. It would be nice if one of those Atmel based micro testers actually worked for cap leakage testing!!

[@javiercarro]

Hi Brad, great channel... it's like electronics porn I'm building tube amplifiers (just for pleasure) and I would like to know where do you get your supplies. thank you Javier (from Uruguay)

[@evelasq1]

Deoxit electronic spray would be good to have.

[@fostexfan160]

I only seem to be able to get chinese 2 amp variacs.....are these too small? Most amps I see have a 2 amp fuse. So it should be ok?

[@lroy730]

Thats a great starter setup ! I would ad More Books !! The Tube Amp Book by Aspen Pittman & How to Service Your Own Amp by Tom Mitchell.. I do prefer the Miller 101 Wire Striper. Mine is from the 70's and still sharp, beware of Chinesium versions . Also I think its about time you get a decent Oscilloscope . You can find very nice scopes for cheap. I tend to favor the Tektronix 4XX series, I have two 465 and my fave 468 cost me $100 in good working order, that has both digital and analog . I could not build my guitar overdrive pedals with out a scope and function generator.

[@TheGuitologist]

I have a scope. I never use it. Don't think I've ever even showed it on the channel.

[@fullclipaudio]

I've got the Tektronix 2252 for free as the engineering department of ASU threw all of theirs in the garbage. Most of my tools come from the garbage and I build all kinds of fun stuff with it. Prefer vintage tools that no one wants over cheap modern Chinese stuff. I've got a shop full of working antiques.

[@rpsproject5349]

Soldering equipment try looking up Xytronics they do a good range of stuff. If you want cheaper try looking up Katsu 936D solder station on Amazon or Ebay. Multimeters, get two; one for low voltage stuff and another for the high voltage. The high voltage one needs to be a good one as protecting yourself is the most important thing.

[@TheGuitologist]

Good suggestions. Thanks for the comment.

[@ChurchOfTheHolyMho]

Ditto. There are some good videos showing inexpensive Chinese 936 / 936D soldering stations (different brands) - including some common issues. As these are knock-offs of Hakko soldering stations, the parts and tips are somewhat standard. Definitely worth a look. Thanks for a video that adds to my wishlist... :)

[@FunkyMonkey-ip4xy]

Polly. Cool.

[@SonofCastille]

how about resistor and or capacitor substitution boxes? Roll your own, find some vintage ones, or chi-com 'deals'

[@TheGuitologist]

We might do a video on building your own decade or "sub" boxes one day. Nice tools to have. And if you're using those, you're going to need some clip leads.

[@SteverRob]

Just for fun I took a look on Ebay at the old GenRad decade boxes, wow they sure are are proud of them. Great to have, but not at those prices.

[@MaxCarton]

Do you need an octal socket probe for your multimeter when biasing a Marshall Plexi reissue without easy acces on pcb for checking bias? Thanks :)

[@TheGuitologist]

I'd just open the amp up and use my probe on the tube pins. You can actually MAKE your own tube socket probes using old tube bases, but there's no guarantee any of them are going to fit inside the cabinets of the amps you're trying to probe. In some cases you may find the probes are too tall to fit inside with the tube on top. In these cases you have to pull the chassis anyway. But no, I would not consider socket probes essential. More of a luxury that won't always work in every case.

[@MaxCarton]

Thanks a lot! Great channel, love watching you fix stuff up :)

[@GeorgeChristofi]

Without pushing another hobby, The ARRL in the US and RSGB in the UK have a fair number of basics books. I won't shout Ham Radio Rocks... but it is a good source of info on electronics even if it isn't directly guitar related.

[@SteverRob]

There are parallels, especially when it comes to repairing tube-powered ham radios. My background in repairing tube guitar amps went a long way in helping me restore a Collins S Line that had been neglected and left for scrap. 2 months of work and had that Collins back on the air. 73

[@drrobert119]

ESR meter best to check Caps...

[@DAVIDGREGORYKERR]

Cant you just use BF244 FET transistors in cascade mode for the four terminal tubes and VN66AF for low power maybe 5 watt and or use the VN66AF to drive MJ3055 metal case transistors for 100 watts.

[@stevepi1]

What about the prodder..... chopstick,paint brush handle....

[@TheGuitologist]

How could I forget the most essential tool in my arsenal? Good call!

[@JohnLee-mq4hk]

I was going to say get a spectrum analyser, but the price on them makes them unobtainable.

[@movinginstereo40]

What about Rusty and his sniff test???

[@chokkan7]

Wrong channel...

[@TheGuitologist]

This is a rare piece of test equipment. I've only ever seen one in use on an obscure KZbinr's channel. He was lucky to find one considering the rarity.

[@movinginstereo40]

Yeah I agree. Just playing there. Can’t believe someone said I have the wrong channel. Cracks me up. Have a good one. Great info vid though Brad.

[@TheGuitologist]

I doubt anyone could every confuse my meandering, cursing, hot mess of a channel with the bastion of knowledge and cool that is Uncle Doug.

[@contrabandjoe7974]

You said "Tool"... in my best bevis & butthead... ahuh ahuh huh huh.. huh huh ahuh.... LOL

[@tubical71]

First things first, Great video...! for tube data: Frank philipse´s online database, no matter what...;) Download the RTM and by the time you have some saved money, buy the used original...;) Ditch the variac, spend the saved money on an ISOLATION tranny!! And on a "big name" used digital meter, if it´s a fluke, a tek, or a beckman....but you rely on this thing, so buy a used from the big players. It may save your life....i´ve blown so many cheapo DMMs but i know what i´m doing (ok most o´the times;) Replace the variac with light bulbs in series with the amplifier, if something odd is happening inside they will light up and save your amp. Next is more of a, my oppinion, advice: if you buy an used amp of unknown state, simply disconnect the high voltage secondary leads which go to the rectifier, and see if all tubes will light up and the power tranny doesn´t "sing" much or getting hot. I always start that way, of course, you can combine this with a variac and an isolation tranny. in fact i always use my variac followed by my iso-tranny and try to light up all tubes without any high voltage present in the tube amp/radio/tv/recordPayer/R2R unit. by the way, my weller WECP station have survived three benches and it´s about 30 years old by now. i replaced the mains cord, and a lot of tips, but that´s it. But if you try to solder some big wires to a chassis, a plain 50W LR21 don´t cut it, you gonna need "more power" usually i go for that pistol shaped short circuit 150W iron. Also you can´t compare a hexacon blaster, which is more than 3 times+++ the power with a temp controlled weller 50W LR21 iron...;) Also buy top notch tools as soon you can afford them, cheap tools are exactly that: cheap....i was into these as well, i bought some, and when they give up, i bought cheap again...until i was given some Wiha screwdrivers....a complete new experience...they last, the work like a charm, this also is true for pliers, clippers....you only buy once for about ten years to come, if you don´t abuse them: big cables/wires need big beefy biters but no precision clippers ;)

[@qualia1123]

OK, part two. Say I've got all that stuff and I'm ready to start fixing amps. How do amps work?

[@marcusjames1221]

Hi thanks again for the video and I have learned so much and thanks for that I repair a lot of Xbox one x ;s and other things to I am just going to buy a bench top multimeter And I don’t want to spend to much it’s the OWON XDM2041 Bench Multimeter with 3.7-Inch 55,000 Count True RMS Ultra-light Digital Multi Tester for Labs, Factories and it has the 2 wire testing and the 4 wire testing do you think this model is ok to start with I have good Range Of soldering irons and D soldering irons And hot air as well I will go out and buy the transformer Which is a good safety items To have and in the future I will go out and get a four channel oscilloscope I think four channels is plenty don’t you think and I have made some Discharging leads for capacitors to make them safe I have soldered in a resistor on the lead with different values to make the compositors safe to work on is there any other items you can think of specially for safety thanks mark

[@dorianblunote455]

Ive had a 5 dollar soldering iron for 2 years i left it on for days!!!! I put 8gauge copper wire and go!!

[@Sloxx701]

Maybe get an isolation transformer as well? I mean this is mains powered stuff and high voltage tubes... Just sayin this for potential new people trying to get into the hobby.

[@TheGuitologist]

Not a bad thing to have. Someone else mentioned a current limiter, which is a good idea as well. Uncle Doug's channel has a great tutorial on how to make one. A limiter will kind of preempt the need for isolation since any excess current will light a huge bulb instead of kill you.

[@Sloxx701]

Yes, a dim bulb tester is nice too. Paul Carlson has a video on how to implement all three onto one board - Variac, isolation, and dim bulb tester. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a2LQm6dvo6uim6M . I use an isolation/variac combo unit which is a Tenma 72-1095. I don't use a dim bulb tester much because my repairs are mostly flat panel TVs which have a 390V PFC circuit and usually CCFL driver circuits that tend to react badly with dim bulb testers.

[@Nopp3]

The bulb might save some components or a transformer, but it will not save your life! the current needed for the bulb to go thermal and start resisting current is some orders of magnitude above what can hurt you. think about it, you are several mega ohms but some hundred volts can still hurt. we are looking at milliamps for a good shock to the system. that bulb won't even notice that. Apply ohms law and solve for current with the impedance of the bulb + your body, then power dissipation in the bulb. you are a bigger resistor by far so all the voltage will be across you. that bulb is a short relative to your body. this is like thinking the fuse will save you from a shock. I've gotten shocked from mains plenty times(220v). not really that bad if your heart is ok. but that bulb will do nothing but give you a false sense of security. I love your stuff, but this is plain bad advice. you might want to make it clear to fans that it can save the amp, but not the technician. EDIT for clarity: I'm not saying you shouldn't use one. I'm saying use one knowing its not there for you.

[@kencohagen4967]

Variance, check. Multi meters, check. Dedicated capacitance meter, needed. Soldering equipment, check. Wire strippers, needle nose pliers and assorted hand tools, check. Tube tester, check three times. ( I inherited my father in law's meters and testers. RCA manual??? Well, needed. Ok, I have an Unger 33 watt iron, and a welder gun for wiring only. So, what's a good manual to learn about tube circuits, how they function and basic design? I understand the basic of how amplifiers work in general, and how tubes work in general, but tube amps are a bit above my understanding. Any suggestions? And sorry, I use lead solder. Unleaded solder just doesn't seem to. Bond as well. Don't inhale the fumes and keep your hands clean and you should be ok. But it does have an effect on the environment when used in mass quantities. Contact cleaner, make sure it's won't melt plastic! All newer pots and switches have plastics in them and the wrong cleaner can ruin your pots and switches! Again, where can I get a good book on tube amps, their design and troubleshooting them? Thx!

[@MrAletube]

Oscilloscope, rubber gloves, magnifying lunettes, LCR meter, capacitor checker hv, esr meter

[@TheGuitologist]

The burns on my fingers agree with you on gloves. :D

[@MrAletube]

leather gloves for hot tubes,rubber for isolation operating on HV

[@locutus61]

Love those beautiful strippers! Are they straight or diagonal? 😅

[@Jake-fo3rg]

I'm thinking I will need an oscilloscope if I muck around with tone stacks and other things. What bandwidth would be recommended? 100MHz? Would I regret that relatively low bandwidth in later years?

[@Sloxx701]

Even 50 Mhz would be way more than you need working on audio gear, especially if you have a limited budget. If you can afford 100Mhz , then get that. Used analog scopes can be had pretty cheap.

[@GeorgeChristofi]

audio bandwidth is less than 50khz so any scope will do the job. even the chinese kit ones (i did a video on them) are not bad for a beginner and not too much of a loss if you blow it up.

[@MarkTillotson]

Whatever you get consider a fixed 100x probe to safely nose around in an amp without risking blowing the 'scope front-end. Most probes are 10x/1x switchable, its very easy to forget to check its in 10x and destroy the 'scope on HV gear. A fixed 100x probe will handle anything short of a neon-sign transformer. Or failing that glue a probe permanently in 10x position for valve use.

[@GeorgeChristofi]

Scopes... for audio... absolutely any bandwidth available will do what you want. I run a 60Mhz Philips scope but that is only because I do radio work as well as audio stuff. Mark is right, get a x100 probe or you do run the risk of blowing up the scope. Older stuff actually tends to be more bulletproof but you run into the issues of having to fix the scope before you can use it!

[@gennidee]

What about an isolation transformer? I would always suggest to use one of these in order to get a little more safety, especially with amps/radios that don't have a transformer themselves. I use a variac with isolation transformer, all in one. Furthermore I think the internet provides a lot of essential content, so having a PC, Laptop or Tablet at hand makes, in my opinion, more sense then buying the RCA tube manual. You can look all tubes up at www.mif.pg.gda.pl/homepages/frank/index.html (I always just google "Frank tube"). Some clip leads might be handy to test components in circuit or take measurements. For troubleshooting amps sometimes an oscilloscope might be very useful. And so on ..... As you said, the list you provided is not exhausting and everyone has his own opinion. But I would definitely recommend the isolation transformer.

[@TheGuitologist]

Thanks for the comment. The isolation transformer is a popular suggestion so far. Between that and a current limiter, which would you deem more "essential"?

[@gennidee]

The Guitologist The iso transformer, as it saves your guts from being cooked when you don't pay attention to where you put your fingers. A current limiter is a good idea but I think you covered that with your variac where you monitor the current anyways when firing up the amp for the first time. For sudden failures that might appear while working on the amp, let's say a short, you normally have fuses. You can also put a light bulb in series with the amp to help cut down on current in case something went wrong. Therefore a current limiter is a device I would only consider buying after I covered the essentials.

[@billygoatgruff2554]

You also forgot to mention the hammers that we saw being used at the beginning of the video. Just saying....😎 They're also good for fixing Gibson guitars apparently. Just saying again...🎸

[@TheGuitologist]

In the 2018 Gibson case comes a complimentary hammer along with the truss rod tool and COA.

[@billygoatgruff2554]

The Guitologist It is an awful shame because at various times I have owned an early Gibson 330. A 1956 Les Paul Junior, and a 1970 Les Paul Deluxe. All fabulous guitars that I wish I'd never parted with. Unfortunately I had a habit of selling a guitar to buy a new motorbike, and vice-versa, depending on whether the sun was shining.... Geddit. Shame I could never afford both at the same time. My only other Gibson was a 2007 Honeyburst Les Paul which I don't regret selling 'cos it hurt my back. Too heavy (and I'm too old to put up with that sort of thing). I do however own one old guitar you might like.... A 1966 Burns/Baldwin GB66. Only thing is, at some time someone had put in super-distortion pick ups which totally ruined the whole character. (Not me) I fitted Kent Armstrong Filtertrons which at least give it back some 'twang'. Cheers Brad, Keef....

[@allenwoody5909]

Thanks, Variac and Iso.transformer pricing begins.

[@Sloxx701]

Buy a combo unit. Pretty much all the combo units are Tech isolation transformers, especially helps get rid of the guesswork for new people. Lots of things labeled "isolation transformers" are not really for tech/service work and are not properly isolated.

[@allenwoody5909]

Thanks i'll look into it

[@skycarl]

For people starting out,,, especially with tubes,,, an isolation transformer could easily save a life.

[@TheGuitologist]

Thanks, Carl. Good call.

[@MidlifeRenaissanceMan]

My first reaction too I would add to that list a screwdriver drill. Life is too short to be undoing screws by hand I am fortunate in that I invested in a Pace rework station back in the 90s. Cost me over 3K and paid for it's self in just over 6 weeks !!! It's a bit like owning a truck in that it costs you a small fortune when you need to fill it up, and the tips and such are not cheap, but the ability to strip chips off boards, and quickly remove a component without damage to the board is so valuable to me. Modding Chinese effects pedals, even multi layer boards is not a problem. Absolute overkill for old point to point amps, but incredibly useful on the later PCBs amps. They are still selling for $300-600 US plus hand pieces.

[@jjn11235]

An isolation transformer, properly used, can increase safety for the tech and his gear, but if the user does not understand how it works, it can lead to a false sense of security, and can make some normally innocuous situations dangerous. I recommend the following video for anyone who doesn't know what I'm talking about: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnPWgmapj5lofM0

[@g.gorrell2088]

Ever since I bought by Mikita screwdriver drill, I don't mind traffic lights as much now.

[@skycarl]

Well CO,,, a variac lets you bring up the voltage and current slowly to the chassis while monitoring the current rise. If the current comes up fast and higher than it should, you can cut off power before it does damage. ( especiially to items like the costly transformer ) It's more for safety to the unit. The isolation transformer isolates the secondary side of the transformer from the earth ground of the primary. Without earth ground, shock hazards are a lot less likely.

[@analognoir7398]

current limiter

[@evelasq1]

Fluke Multimeter is the top of the line multimeter than can be used.

[@TheGuitologist]

Agreed. I have a very nice Fluke. I also have several other DMMs.

[@GeorgeChristofi]

Which fluke though... some people might not know that the chinese have fluke meters too, designed just for that end of the market. I have a genuine 77, made in usa but In some cases my British made Avo 8 makes the fluke look like a toy.

[@edwardmonsariste4050]

Some multimeters are not suited for amp building and repair. Many Flukes are great for electronics, but lack features needed. Watch Amp Mechanic on his mistakes buying multimeters for guitar amps.

[@willford8475]

Fuck me, I thought you were over 40! Lol

[@GeorgeChristofi]

You NEED a dead man stick.... anyone working on tube amps or radios needs to discharge caps before finding out how much 400v DC hurts.... ok, 1600vDC hurt more but most won't be playing in rf stuff. Also, the multimeter needs to have a 10 meg input resistance so as not to load the circuit and be rated either class 3 or class 4 so that it can withstand the higher voltages safely.

[@Sloxx701]

Totally forgot to mention that too when I made a comment, it's a good point. But you don't have to build one. A multimeter that has a LowZ mode can discharge most caps up to 800 volts or so, the impedance on that range is only about 2-5k ohms. I've been doing it for a few years now discharging 450v bulk input caps.

[@GeorgeChristofi]

Trouble is that most cheap multimeters are not particularly suited. I would still go with a 5w 10k resistor and a pair of long clips. Ok, I might be a snob because I have an older fluke 77, but sometimes the even older Avo 8 is actually better for some jobs. Both can be had on ebay for pretty reasonable prices, there is no need to spend big money or to scrimp out and buy a $5 chinese meter.

[@dwightlaw2105]

Workbench LOL couldn't help myself

[@evelasq1]

Maybe some rubber or latex gloves would be good to have to prevent accidental electrocution.

[@captainamerica9353]

Unless they are "Electrically Rated" they will just melt onto your hands if things go wrong.

[@mj-dd2fb]

YT: Monetize this!!!

[@robertburke7231]

Brad, you are wonderful , keep calm and we all hate interweb police...... you can,t speak your mind any more!,,,, and forget about the seven words you can’t say on television . Peace!,,,