3 replies to this topic

[feffer]

Interested in going to the next level for my testing. Now I'm using a hydrometer, a TA titration kit and pH strips. My lhbs sells refractometers, and other supplies, but they are pricey compared to units on ebay. Are the under $40 ebay refractometers a good value? How about the pH testers? There is a basic Hanna unit for around $32 w/shipping. My lhbs sells a higher grade Hanna unit, but it is $100.

Anyone have experience with these more basic testing units? I'm sure the refractometer is made in China, but if they are accurate enough and will last for a while, that may fit my needs.

thx

[Tomer1]

Refractometers are simple optical instruments (and im sure that even the cheap stuff will work fine),
pH meters on the other hand are not.
I would invest in a good unit which is accurate,reliable and has a replacable probe\electrode.
With pH meters ,buying cheap is buying twice.

Hanna is not your only option, there are many other decent 100$ price range units.

[Hammered]

My first pH meter was a Hanna Checker I got for around $30 and it continues to work for me over 6 years later. I've never changed the probe and now use it in the vineyard, and to double check my $120 Milwaukee meter. For just starting out with a meter, I'd have no hesitation recommending it, based on my experience.

[Lina_Motyka]

I got refractometer on ebay and it works just fine. Probably the same poduct the supply houses carry.