[JakeJ]

Hi to all,

I am a newbie to forums and a new member at AC, however I have been lurking for several months and really like the overall "feel" here. I will post a formal introduction for myself in the Starting Block as soon as I have time.

I am considering purchasing a PC-based test bench software package that includes an oscilloscope, spectrum analyzer, and signal generator. This one looks like a very good candidate http://trueaudio.com/. Here is another less expensive package that seems to be contender also http://www.virtins.com/index.html.

I would appreciate any advice as there does seem to be some people that prefer separate analog based instruments. Please elaborate as to why these are favored.

Sorry if this topic has been covered, I did use the search tool and came up empty-handed (except for the TrueAudio link)

JakeJ

[Occam]

That depends on what your intent is....
If you plan on testing speakers, room sweeps, etc... then a software/soundcard based package might do you quite well.

If you also want to work on electronics, where it is often necessary to looks at signals/oscillation in the mHz range, you'd need a dedicated usb/slot... instrumentation package like -
http://www.cleverscope.com/products/
http://www.bitscope.com/
http://www.pc-oscilloscopes.com/index.php/cPath/23
http://www.linkinstruments.com/oscilloscope.htm

These instruments have varying degrees of bandwith, bit depth, etc...
The some also have digital logic capabilities, as well as incorporated signal generators for spectrum analysis duties into RF spectra, etc... The costs vary, but if your intent is to use your instrumentation for speaker work, you probably do need anything but a software/soundcard based system as you referenced.

As I use my instrumentation for low RF spectrum analysis of powerconditioners, I use the Cleverscope, which has its own signal generator and also has digital logic capabilities, but its costs are substantially higher than the audio specific soundcard based systems you mentioned.

FWIW,
Paul

[incommunicado for the next week]

[JakeJ]

Thanks, Occam. As I already have a Fluke 97 scopemeter I think just a software/soundcard system will be what I need.

My research so far does point to an external USB soundcard that allows adjustment of sampling rates and other parameters and offers an above average S/N ratio for greater accuracy.

Quote from TrueAudio website:
"Q: Do you recommend external sound systems for use with the RTA software?
A: An external USB sound system can be used where the best precision is required. But it is also possible to get very reasonable results with the built-in sound system. Many customers report good results with the M-Audio products."

Occam, thanks again for taking the time to give me some straight answers. I really appreciate it!

JakeJ

[gitarretyp]

You might have a look at Liberty Instruments Praxis. It's a RTA/loudspeaker design packages that's free for most of its functionality.

For an outboard usb device, i'd take a look at the Tascam US-122 or 122L. You can usually find a decent deal on ebay for either model.

[JakeJ]

Guitarretyp,

Thanks, and apologies for not responding sooner. Graveyard hours plus I cannot participate on AC at work, only lurk.

I downloaded a copy to play with.

JakeJ