MOTM

A new Extech 5/6 digit handheld multimeter is only $229 at
Future-Active.  It has the highest frequency resolution I've seen at
that price.  Do you need this for building MOTM modules - well, probably
not.  Your ear is a fine tuned instrument when it comes to frequency
deltas.  For tuning VCOs you use a calibrated source such as MIDI-CV
converter, and then tune to octaves by ear.  

Now if you're using the meter to tune notes, such as VCOs driven from
analog sequencer stages, the meter becomes more critical.  More
inexpensive meters have lower accuracy than your MOTM VCO, typically 1
Hz or 0.1 Hz resolution and 1% or 0.1% accuracy.  Paul published some
tracking numbers showing at 800 Hz the MOTM-300 was within .03 Hertz of
perfect tracking.  You can translate this to say your meter would need
better than .03 Hertz resolution and better than .03/800 x 100% =
.00375% accuracy to measure this.  Now even my Extech isn't that
accurate, but it's close. To put it another way, a 0.1% accurate meter
is only guaranteed to measure from 799.2 to 800.8 Hz for that perfect
800 Hz signal.

Bottom line is, decide whether you need this accuracy in a meter and
then check the specks of any potential purchases.  For tuning a cheap
instrument tuner might serve you better.

John Loffink
The Microtonal Synthesis Web Site
http://www.microtonal-synthesis.com
The Wavemakers Synthesizer Web Site
http://www.wavemakers-synth.com


> Yes, the EG does work. :) You can do it. :)  Personally, I use Fluke
> meters.
> Not because there is anything wrong with the others, but my experience
has
> been they are bullet proof.  I have a typical 3.5 digit great for most
> applications (model 77 no longer made I have had it so long).  I also
> picked
> up a used 6 digit meter for my bench which I have enjoyed immensely
for
> matching resistors and precise work.  However, new they are in the
> $1300-1500 range.  I found mine used in excellent condition for $275.
> Larry
>