AVO CT160 or Taylor 45C? - UK Vintage Radio Repair and Restoration Discussion Forum

Ted Kendall · 9th Sep 2017, 7:50 pm

A question for those with more experience than I in testing valves. Dad used two, a Taylor 45C I think he must have had from new and an AVO CT160, which he bought much later. One of them really should go, and the choice of which to keep I suppose should depend on function. However, given that most of what I'm likely to do is go/no go checks on audio valves, would the Taylor do the job? I have an irrational affection for the thing - nostalgia - pain in the

...your thoughts, please, people.

chriswood1900 · 9th Sep 2017, 8:11 pm

Ted
If I were choosing it would be a CT160 more versatile packs up neatly and can be put away. Both will do go/no checks and neither is ideal for thorough testing of large audio output valves as they have limits on max test current etc. If they are in good condition the AVO would fetch more if you sold it.
Not exactly an answer but my personal view.
Chris

Craig Sawyers · 9th Sep 2017, 9:34 pm

I have a 45C and a CT160 (and a Mk III).

My order of preference is the Mk III, CT160 and exceptionally rarely the 45C.

So I'd agree with Chris - the CT160 is the keeper.

Craig

9th Sep 2017, 7:50 pm	#1
Ted Kendall Dekatron Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Kington, Herefordshire, UK. Posts: 3,675	AVO CT160 or Taylor 45C? A question for those with more experience than I in testing valves. Dad used two, a Taylor 45C I think he must have had from new and an AVO CT160, which he bought much later. One of them really should go, and the choice of which to keep I suppose should depend on function. However, given that most of what I'm likely to do is go/no go checks on audio valves, would the Taylor do the job? I have an irrational affection for the thing - nostalgia - pain in the ...your thoughts, please, people.

9th Sep 2017, 8:11 pm	#2
chriswood1900 Octode Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Dorridge, West Midlands, UK. Posts: 1,486	Re: AVO CT160 or Taylor 45C? Ted If I were choosing it would be a CT160 more versatile packs up neatly and can be put away. Both will do go/no checks and neither is ideal for thorough testing of large audio output valves as they have limits on max test current etc. If they are in good condition the AVO would fetch more if you sold it. Not exactly an answer but my personal view. Chris

9th Sep 2017, 9:34 pm	#3
Craig Sawyers Dekatron Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Oxford, UK. Posts: 4,998	Re: AVO CT160 or Taylor 45C? I have a 45C and a CT160 (and a Mk III). My order of preference is the Mk III, CT160 and exceptionally rarely the 45C. So I'd agree with Chris - the CT160 is the keeper. Craig