I would buy both of them. An oscilloscope is something you really need for
doing signal tracing, etc. while a spectrum analyzer is a must if you are
doing synthesizer/oscillator/transmitter design. I have both of them and use
them all of the time. Other good things to have are an RF power meter,
modulation meter, frequency counter, broadband noise source, RF generator,
DVM, VOM, and a good variable power supply. This just scratches the surface,
depending on your needs.

Pete

"John Doe" wrote in message
u...
Hi B. Taylor,
You really are asking the proverbial "how long is a piece of string"
question.
Might I suggest you spend some time and money on a
good electronics course.
If courses are not offered in you area try your local library,
Is their someone who can mentor you?


wrote in message
oups.com...

Ralph Mowery wrote:
wrote in message
oups.com...
Which of these would be the most useful to the Radio Amateur? Also
when
deciding upon one or the other, what specs should one look for in
purchasing one for Ham radio applications, given basic needs for
now
but with enough capabilities to handle more advanced Ham radio
needs in
the future? Thank you for any help. B. Taylor

If you have to ask then you don't need either one.

It's not a matter of need. I don't actually "need" to be involved
with Amateur Radio period. It's something I "choose" to be involved
with. I asked the question strictly on the basis of if I were to
purchase either one of these pieces of test equipment for typical
Amateur radio uses, which one would be more useful to me in general
terms as a typical ham that likes to tinker and experiment. Thank you,
B. Taylor