[Test-Equipment] ESI 250-DA vs ESI 250-DE Impedance Bridges

[Michael D. Harmon]

Hi Folks,

I've been looking for an impedance bridge for some time, and had
really had my heart set on a GR 1650 A or B, but I saw an ESI 250-DA
bridge for a real steal on EB at y and couldn't resist, so I bought it.

What I'd like to know is -- how does the ESI 250-DA compare to the
250-DE and the GR 1650-series bridges? I know the 250-DA is
hollow-state technology, but that doesn't bother me, as long as I can
find replacement tubes if I need them. I think the 250-DE is solid state.

How do the bridges compare with regard to capabilities? My primary
requirement is to be able to identify capacitors (esp air variables),
RF coils, and filter chokes scrounged from cannibalized gear. I have
a couple of nice dip meters (a Measurements 59 and a solid-state
Heathkit), but being able to read out values instead of running
numbers through a formula will be nice.

Any info would be appreciated. I'm especially curious to know whether
I should still keep my eyes open for a GR 1650A/B.

Thanks!

Mike, WB0LDJ
mharmon at att dot net