I am currently looking to purchase a basic, used tube tester, but am confused as to specific features I should be looking for. Are certain manufacturers to be avoided? I see EICO is a common unit, but was wondering about Lafayette, as well. Any input would be very much appreciated. Thanks!

Hi Rob

There are basically two types of tube testers, emission and transconductance. Emission costs less but doesn't test tubes using an input signal. The best tube tester is the actual radio or TV.

Any tester should be able to light the tube and check that current going between plate and cathode. Eico, Lafayette, Heath and most others will be able to do this.

The most important thing to watch are the sockets on the tester. If you are going to work on old radios be sure 4, 5, 6 and 7 pin sockets for old tubes are on your tester.

Norm

: I am currently looking to purchase a basic, used tube tester, but am confused as to specific features I should be looking for. Are certain manufacturers to be avoided? I see EICO is a common unit, but was wondering about Lafayette, as well. Any input would be very much appreciated. Thanks!

Lafayettes were made in Japan, and you won't find any additional setup data for them. Eico and Heath models are common, and there are many other brands of emission testers: Precision and Jackson would be the better ones. There are more modern ones by B&K, Sencore and others but these usually won't test older tubes. Don't go over $50 for any emission tester.
Mutual-conductance testers are better: Hickok, some B&K and Sencore, and most military models fall in this category. $50 for one of those would be a bargain.