Why go new for first scope?
I went with a nice used BK analog 100mhz quad-trace scope.
This forced me to do everything manually and fully understand everything.
This also gave me time to play around with a scope and figure out what I truly wanted.
It set me back $75. I could probably sell it for at least $100.
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I started looking for a new scope about 3 months ago. I studied my options given my budget and came down to four models (all 100MHZ).
*) Rigol 100-mhz DS1102E
*) Atten (the 7" version) ADS1102CAL
*) OWON (New-version SDS7102)
*) Hantek DSO5102B (7-inch WVGA screen)
My first choice was ATTEN....did some more research...it was cheapest.
Changed mind and decided Rigol was lower-risk and better choice..
I sat on my choice for another month while I studied more options.
After seeing the larger screen on the Hantek and linux OS, I thought that was the way to go.
Then, I discovered OWON.
1) Screen is big 8 inches..
2) Pixel resolution is TWICE that of Rigol! Twice!!
3) Input design is much more streamlined w/less components.
4) No overclocking 40MHZ chips (Rigol)
5) FASTER risetimes: The newest generation 100MHZ scope is good for 200 right out of the box!
6) LAN interface
7) VGA out to monitor.
Battery option...great for my field work.
9) No negative press yet, so seems like a good risk.
Disadvantages of OWON compaired to other cheap scopes include:
New model with limited reviews
Feature set is evolving still on new model....some "common-sense" features missing.
More expensive....street price is about $425. I paid $500 shipped w/battery and bag.
Not hackable like the Hantek.
Not many resources on web for help/research.
I wanted the better features and bought it. Make sure you get the newest version though.