Budget RF audio generator options for tuning radio receivers

[Aldo22]

but i think tinySA is enough for my job. Dont you think?

I can't answer that for you because I have no experience with what you are doing and because I don't know what is "good enough" for your purpose.

I can only repeat the specifications

Low output mode spec:

* Sinusoidal output with harmonics below -40dB of fundamental.
* Output frequency range from 100kHz to 350MHz
* Output level selectable in 1dB steps between -76dBm and -7dBm
* Optional AM, narrow FM and wide FM modulation or slow sweep over selectable frequency span
* Modulation frequency: 50Hz to 8kHz (Rem.: Amplitude can not be changed).

If you want to buy a TinySA, make sure you get an original one.
I got mine from this store and it is original.

[TurboTom]

If you would like a full-featured AWG and 100MHz max output frequency is enough (still covers a major portion of the FM band), and you don't want to pay for an SDG2000X series instrument, you may consider Rigol's DG811 and hack it to (almost) DG992 level. That's currently probably the AWG with the best bang-for-buck ratio in its hacked condition. Don't under-estimate the advantages of a full-featured AWG: The U/I is much more comfortable than the one of the TinySA since it's specifically configured for generating waveforms. Moreover, you've got plenty of modulation options with all kinds of adjustable parameters. There are external input(s) to the modulators, so you could also use an external audio signal to modulate the AWG. And, not to forget, the output level control is more accurate and covers a wider range. With in-line BNC attenuators you can even get into the RF signal generator level range...

Initially, I was joking about the DG800/900 series's funny enclosure (and I'm still...), but reagrdless of its ridiculous appearance, the case is quite rigid (not to compare with other "plasticky" bottom-of-the-barrel AWGs) and its perfomance features put it right in the place of a "serious" entry-level AWG with (IMO) a well thought-out U/I.

[colorado.rob]

How much tuning do modern AM and FM receivers really require these days?

[RiRaRi]

Not new one. 70s, 80s receivers. Even tube ones