Q-Meter, and Tube Radio?

[Shortwavewave]

Hello, since I have a a little knack for collectiong old stuff, a local antique shop is selling this stuff, I was wondering if I should buy a "Booton ? Q-Meter Tube operated"? it also comes with a SW tube radio, and can have both for $60 or just the meter for $30 and the Sw for $30.

Is this a good deal for both or either? I dont know know the brand of the SW radio theres absolutly no tags, or labels on it. The guy says the Q-meter works, but the radio does not.

Weither it be for just looks, or to use it, I really like the Q-meter "by its looks".

Any help? THanks Maybe Warren can chime in

 

[zz0468]

If you just like the way they look, get 'em. I have a collection of antique radios that numbers about 50 pieces, along with several pieces of antique (or at least old) test equipment. They make for an interesting and eclectic decor for the house, and many of them actually work. The rest will be restored someday. Many are chosen just because we like the way they look. I say go for it.

 

[k9rzz]

Is it a Q-meter or Q-multiplier? Perhaps the Q-multiplier gets hooked up to the radio? Got a make and model of the radio?

 

[Shortwavewave]

Well the Boonton meter says "Military Q-Meter" on the front, on a metal plate.

And I dont know the make of the SW Radio, I has a red-bronwish leather type covering.

 

[kb2vxa]

Heeeeerrrre's WARREN!

If you post a picture I may recognize the Q meter as the Boonton I used on my last job. OK it works but when is the last calibration date? If it was used professionally (it's an EXPENSIVE sucker, not something you'll find in the ham shack) there should be one on it. If it's not recent it must be calibrated if it's to be of any use measuring Q, L, C and resonant frequency provided you have an engineering degree so you know how to operate it. The new solid state versions are a whole lot easier but frankly I never completely mastered them so please don't ask. You might find the operating manual for the MFJ antenna analyzer helpful for the basics, it's pretty close.

When it comes to price $30 is a STEAL so since you can grab a SW receiver with it GRAB THEM! If nothing else you can have fun restoring the receiver, that was an extension of my radio hobby and turned the occasional profit too. I would suggest having a calibration house take a look at the Boonton, it's worth a whole lot more working and calibrated. Even if you can't use it you can turn it over for a handsome profit, if the house buys it on the cheap as is you still come out ahead.