Is there an advantage to vintage spectrum analyzers, over free software ones? Looking on ebay, I see old HP and waveform analyzers from $500-$1000.
Well they can be calibrated and take all manner of measurements and will work down to DC unlike sound cards. They usually have more capabilities for input and output impedance too.
BTW you are talking about what are usually called dynamic signal analysers (and audio analyzers), not spectrum analyzers (which are for RF).
Software is limited by the typical hardware involved, although for typical audio use this isn't usually a problem, but if you wanted to do vibration analysis the lack of bandwidth below 10Hz would be an issue.
Old testgear like this weighs a tonne, note, and takes up loads of space, most units are 50cm deep or more and 15kg+
BTW you are talking about what are usually called dynamic signal analysers (and audio analyzers), not spectrum analyzers (which are for RF).
Software is limited by the typical hardware involved, although for typical audio use this isn't usually a problem, but if you wanted to do vibration analysis the lack of bandwidth below 10Hz would be an issue.
Old testgear like this weighs a tonne, note, and takes up loads of space, most units are 50cm deep or more and 15kg+
I like using a soundcard and software, mostly. But from time to time the hardware can come in handy if it has more bandwidth. It can be nice to look out to 1 MHz or beyond. Of course there are USB devices that can do that too.
I think that is the route I'm going to take. I don't have an immediate need - I just came across a "deal" at a locale estate sale. I don't need another massive piece of gear I use 3x a year, and don't really "need" to have.
I'll browse some of the threads, and keep my eye out for a used soundcard that is good enough.
At some stage old can get too old, especially when you want to interact with the analyser. I have a HP3560A which uses SDF utilities for Win 95, 98, NT, and even if you can arrange an interface to a modern PC (which I haven't yet achieved), there is very little that can be done as far as functions.
A key advantage I find with modern software is the large set of functions, and the continued advancement of functionality.
A key advantage I find with modern software is the large set of functions, and the continued advancement of functionality.