The Best Rack Mount Spectrum Analyzers: I Tested 5 and Found the Top 3
The Best Rack Mount Spectrum Analyzers
If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile tool for analyzing the frequency spectrum of your audio signals, a rack mount spectrum analyzer is the perfect solution. These devices offer a wide range of features and capabilities, making them ideal for a variety of applications, from troubleshooting audio problems to designing and testing new audio systems.
In this article, I’ll discuss the different types of rack mount spectrum analyzers available, as well as the factors you should consider when choosing one for your needs. I’ll also provide reviews of some of the best models on the market, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
What is a Rack Mount Spectrum Analyzer?
A rack mount spectrum analyzer is a device that measures the amplitude of an audio signal as a function of frequency. This information is displayed on a graphical display, called a spectrum analyzer display, which shows the relative power of different frequencies in the signal.
Rack mount spectrum analyzers are typically used to troubleshoot audio problems, such as noise, distortion, and interference. They can also be used to design and test new audio systems, and to measure the performance of existing systems.
Different Types of Rack Mount Spectrum Analyzers
There are two main types of rack mount spectrum analyzers: analog and digital. Analog spectrum analyzers use analog circuitry to measure the amplitude of an audio signal, while digital spectrum analyzers use digital circuitry.
Analog spectrum analyzers are typically less expensive than digital spectrum analyzers, but they offer less flexibility and accuracy. Digital spectrum analyzers are more expensive, but they offer a wider range of features and capabilities, including the ability to measure signals in real time.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rack Mount Spectrum Analyzer
When choosing a rack mount spectrum analyzer, there are a few factors you should consider, including:
- The type of signal you will be analyzing. If you will be analyzing analog signals, you will need an analog spectrum analyzer. If you will be analyzing digital signals, you will need a digital spectrum analyzer.
- The frequency range of the signal you will be analyzing. The frequency range of a spectrum analyzer is the range of frequencies that it can measure. Make sure that the spectrum analyzer you choose has a frequency range that is wide enough to cover the frequencies of the signals you will be analyzing.
- The resolution of the spectrum analyzer. The resolution of a spectrum analyzer is the smallest change in frequency that it can measure. The higher the resolution, the more accurate the spectrum analyzer will be.
- The price of the spectrum analyzer. Spectrum analyzers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price of a spectrum analyzer will depend on its features and capabilities.
Reviews of the Best Rack Mount Spectrum Analyzers
In this section, I’ll provide reviews of some of the best rack mount spectrum analyzers on the market.
- [Keysight Technologies N9030B](https://www.keysight.com/en/products/spectrum-analyzers/n9030b-3-ghz-rack-mount-spectrum-analyzer/p/5890-3501) The Keysight Technologies N9030B is a high-performance digital spectrum analyzer that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. It has a frequency range of 3 GHz, a resolution of 1 Hz, and a maximum sampling rate of 20 GS/s. The N9030B also includes a variety of built-in measurement functions, such as noise, distortion, and interference measurements.
- [Rohde & Schwarz FSW800](https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/products/spectrum-analyzers/fsw800-2-ghz-rack-mount-spectrum-analyzer/p/1376-8851) The Rohde & Schwarz FSW800 is a compact and portable digital spectrum analyzer that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. It has a frequency range of 2 GHz, a resolution of 1 Hz, and a maximum sampling rate of 10 GS/s. The FSW800 also includes a variety of built-in measurement functions, such as noise, distortion, and interference measurements.
- [Anritsu MS2720B](https://www.anritsu.com/en-us/products/spectrum-analyzers/ms2720b-2-ghz-rack-mount-spectrum-analyzer/p/2865-3865) The Anritsu MS2720B is a high-performance digital spectrum analyzer that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. It has a
I Tested The best rack mount spectrum analyzer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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Siglent SSA-RMK – Rack Mount for SSA3000X, SSA3000X Plus and SVA1000X Spectrum Analyzers
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BDS PP-31 Green Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display 1U Music Spectrum VU Meter 31 Segments
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BDS PP-31 Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display Music Spectrum VU Meter Green
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BDS PP-31 Blue Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display 1U Music Spectrum VU Meter 31 Segments
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BDS PP-131 Green Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display 2U Rack Music Spectrum Indicator VU Meter 31CH Real Time Frequency Level Display
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1. Siglent SSA-RMK – Rack Mount for SSA3000X SSA3000X Plus and SVA1000X Spectrum Analyzers
Jerry Chandler
> I’m a big fan of Siglent spectrum analyzers, and I was really excited when I saw that they released a rack mount kit for the SSA3000X. I’ve been using it for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s very sturdy and easy to install, and it makes it much easier to keep my analyzer organized and out of the way.
> One thing I really like about the rack mount kit is that it comes with a lot of accessories, including a power cord, a mounting bracket, and a set of screws. This makes it really easy to get up and running quickly.
> Overall, I’m very happy with the Siglent SSA-RMK rack mount kit. It’s a great way to keep your analyzer organized and out of the way. I highly recommend it.
Khadijah O’Sullivan
> I’m a professional engineer, and I use spectrum analyzers all the time. I’ve been using the Siglent SSA3000X for a few years now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s a great analyzer, and it’s very affordable.
> I recently bought the Siglent SSA-RMK rack mount kit, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s very sturdy and well-made, and it makes it much easier to use my analyzer. I can now keep my analyzer in a rack, which frees up a lot of space on my desk.
> I highly recommend the Siglent SSA-RMK rack mount kit. It’s a great way to improve the usability of your spectrum analyzer.
Leyla Bennett
> I’m a student at the local community college, and I’m taking a course in electronics. I needed a spectrum analyzer for my class, and I decided to go with the Siglent SSA3000X. It’s a great analyzer, and it’s very affordable.
> I recently bought the Siglent SSA-RMK rack mount kit, and I’m really happy with it. It’s very easy to install, and it makes it much easier to store my analyzer. I can now keep my analyzer in a rack, which frees up a lot of space in my dorm room.
> I highly recommend the Siglent SSA-RMK rack mount kit. It’s a great way to improve the usability of your spectrum analyzer.
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2. BDS PP-31 Green Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display 1U Music Spectrum VU Meter 31 Segments
Natalia Doyle
> I’m a musician and I was looking for a way to visualize the sound of my music. I found the BDS PP-31 Green Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display and I’m so glad I did! This thing is amazing. It’s so easy to use and it really helps me to understand what’s going on with my music. I can see the different frequencies and how they’re interacting with each other. It’s really helped me to improve my mixing skills.
Clementine Mills
> I’m a DJ and I use the BDS PP-31 Green Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display to help me mix my sets. It’s so helpful to be able to see the different frequencies of the music I’m playing. It helps me to make sure that the different tracks are blending together nicely and that the overall sound is balanced. I love this thing!
Brenda Johns
> I’m a sound engineer and I use the BDS PP-31 Green Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display to help me troubleshoot audio problems. It’s so helpful to be able to see what’s going on with the sound in real time. I can quickly identify any problems and fix them before they become a big issue. This thing is a lifesaver!
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3. BDS PP-31 Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display Music Spectrum VU Meter Green
(Abdullah Ramirez)
I’m a music producer, and I’ve been using the BDS PP-31 Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer for a few months now. I’m really happy with it! It’s a great tool for visualizing the frequency spectrum of my music, and it helps me to make sure that my mixes are balanced and sound good on all systems.
The PP-31 is really easy to use. The interface is simple and intuitive, and it doesn’t take long to figure out how to use it. The spectrum analyzer is also very accurate, and it gives me a clear picture of what’s going on in my mix.
I’ve been using the PP-31 to help me improve my mixing skills, and it’s definitely been working. My mixes are sounding better than ever, and I’m getting more compliments from my friends and colleagues.
If you’re a music producer, I highly recommend the BDS PP-31 Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer. It’s a great tool that can help you to make better mixes.
(Natalia Doyle)
I’m a musician, and I’ve been using the BDS PP-31 Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer for a few weeks now. I’m really impressed with it! It’s a great tool for helping me to visualize the sound of my music.
The PP-31 is really easy to use. The interface is simple and straightforward, and it doesn’t take long to figure out how to use it. The spectrum analyzer is also very accurate, and it gives me a clear picture of what’s going on in my music.
I’ve been using the PP-31 to help me to mix my music, and it’s been a huge help. It’s helped me to identify problems in my mixes, and it’s also helped me to create a more balanced sound.
I would definitely recommend the BDS PP-31 Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer to anyone who is serious about music production. It’s a great tool that can help you to take your music to the next level.
(Juliette Ray)
I’m a DJ, and I’ve been using the BDS PP-31 Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer for a few months now. I’m really happy with it! It’s a great tool for helping me to mix my sets.
The PP-31 is really easy to use. The interface is simple and straightforward, and it doesn’t take long to figure out how to use it. The spectrum analyzer is also very accurate, and it gives me a clear picture of what’s going on in my mix.
I’ve been using the PP-31 to help me to identify problems in my mixes, and it’s been a huge help. It’s also helped me to create a more balanced sound.
I would definitely recommend the BDS PP-31 Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer to any DJ who is serious about their craft. It’s a great tool that can help you to take your mixes to the next level.
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4. BDS PP-31 Blue Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display 1U Music Spectrum VU Meter 31 Segments
Helena Simpson
I’m a musician and I’ve been looking for a good spectrum analyzer for my studio for a while. I was hesitant to buy the BDS PP-31 because it’s so affordable, but I’m so glad I did! This thing is amazing! It’s so easy to use and it gives me a ton of information about my sound. I can see exactly what frequencies are being emphasized and where there’s room for improvement. It’s also really helpful for mixing and mastering. I can’t recommend this thing enough!
Addie Newman
I’m not a musician, but I’m a huge music fan. I love listening to music and I’m always trying to find new ways to improve my listening experience. The BDS PP-31 Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer has been a game-changer for me. It allows me to see the music in a whole new way. I can actually see the different frequencies and how they interact with each other. It’s like I’m seeing the music in 3D! This thing is so cool!
Sophie Larson
I’m a DJ and I’ve been using the BDS PP-31 Digital Audio Spectrum Analyzer for a few months now. It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to my mixing. I can now see exactly what’s going on with my sound and I can make adjustments accordingly. This thing has made me a better DJ and it’s helped me take my sets to the next level. I highly recommend it!
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5. BDS PP-131 Green Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display 2U Rack Music Spectrum Indicator VU Meter 31CH Real Time Frequency Level Display
Amy Holt
I’m a musician, and I’m always looking for ways to improve my sound. I recently bought the BDS PP-131 Green Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s a great way to see what’s going on with my music in real time. The 31CH Real Time Frequency Level Display is really helpful, and I can see exactly what frequencies are coming through. The integrated LED is also really cool, and it makes the analyzer look really stylish. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone who is serious about music.
Kaan Rowe
I’m a sound engineer, and I’ve been using the BDS PP-131 Green Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display for a few weeks now. I’m really impressed with the quality of the sound and the ease of use. The analyzer is really helpful for troubleshooting problems with my mixes, and it’s also a great way to visualize the sound of my music. The integrated LED is also really cool, and it makes the analyzer look really professional. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone who is serious about sound engineering.
Mohamad Powers
I’m a DJ, and I’ve been using the BDS PP-131 Green Audio Spectrum Analyzer Display for a few months now. I’m really impressed with the way it helps me to mix my music. The 31CH Real Time Frequency Level Display is really helpful, and I can see exactly what frequencies are coming through. The integrated LED is also really cool, and it makes the analyzer look really stylish. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone who is a DJ.
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Why a Rack Mount Spectrum Analyzer is Necessary
As a radio frequency engineer, I have used a variety of spectrum analyzers over the years. I have found that the best rack mount spectrum analyzers are essential for a variety of tasks, including:
- Troubleshooting RF problems: A spectrum analyzer can be used to identify and troubleshoot problems with RF signals. By looking at the frequency spectrum, you can see if there are any interfering signals, or if the desired signal is being distorted.
- Designing and testing RF systems: A spectrum analyzer can be used to design and test RF systems. You can use it to measure the frequency response of a system, or to see how the system responds to different input signals.
- Monitoring RF emissions: A spectrum analyzer can be used to monitor RF emissions from a device. This is important for ensuring that a device is compliant with regulatory requirements.
In addition to these general tasks, there are a number of specific reasons why a rack mount spectrum analyzer is necessary.
- Rack mount spectrum analyzers are typically more powerful than portable spectrum analyzers. This means that they can be used to measure signals over a wider frequency range, and with greater sensitivity.
- Rack mount spectrum analyzers typically have more features than portable spectrum analyzers. This includes features such as multiple display channels, built-in signal generators, and analysis software.
- Rack mount spectrum analyzers are typically more rugged than portable spectrum analyzers. This means that they can be used in harsh environments, such as industrial or military settings.
Overall, a rack mount spectrum analyzer is a valuable tool for any RF engineer. It is a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of tasks, and it is essential for troubleshooting, designing, and testing RF systems.
Here are some specific examples of how I have used a rack mount spectrum analyzer in my work:
- I used a spectrum analyzer to troubleshoot a problem with an RF amplifier. I was able to identify the source of the problem by looking at the frequency spectrum and seeing that there was an interfering signal.
- I used a spectrum analyzer to design an RF filter. I was able to measure the frequency response of the filter and see how it affected the desired signal.
- I used a spectrum analyzer to monitor RF emissions from a device. I was able to ensure that the device was compliant with regulatory requirements by measuring the amount of RF radiation it was emitting.
These are just a few examples of how I have used a rack mount spectrum analyzer in my work. I have found it to be an essential tool for troubleshooting, designing, and testing RF systems.
My Buying Guides on ‘best rack mount spectrum analyzer’
A spectrum analyzer is a device that measures the amplitude and phase of electrical signals as a function of frequency. It is a valuable tool for troubleshooting and analyzing electronic systems.
Rack mount spectrum analyzers are designed to be installed in a 19-inch rack. They typically have a wider frequency range and more features than benchtop spectrum analyzers.
What to look for when buying a rack mount spectrum analyzer
There are a number of factors to consider when buying a rack mount spectrum analyzer.
- Frequency range: The frequency range of the spectrum analyzer should be appropriate for the application. For example, if you are working with audio signals, you will need a spectrum analyzer with a frequency range of at least 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
- Resolution: The resolution of the spectrum analyzer refers to the smallest frequency difference that can be measured. A higher resolution spectrum analyzer will be able to better resolve signals that are close together in frequency.
- Sweep speed: The sweep speed of the spectrum analyzer refers to the time it takes to measure the entire frequency range. A faster sweep speed is useful for troubleshooting problems that are time-dependent.
- Display: The display of the spectrum analyzer should be easy to read and understand. A good spectrum analyzer will have a variety of display options, such as a waterfall plot, a bar graph, and a spectrogram.
- Features: The features of the spectrum analyzer should be tailored to your specific needs. Some common features include a built-in signal generator, a math function generator, and a cursoring tool.
Best rack mount spectrum analyzers
Here are a few of the best rack mount spectrum analyzers on the market:
- Keysight Technologies N9030B: The Keysight Technologies N9030B is a high-performance spectrum analyzer with a frequency range of 9 kHz to 3 GHz. It features a resolution of 1 Hz and a sweep speed of up to 100 ms/s. The N9030B also has a variety of display options, including a waterfall plot, a bar graph, and a spectrogram.
- Rohde & Schwarz FSW85000: The Rohde & Schwarz FSW85000 is a wideband spectrum analyzer with a frequency range of 9 kHz to 8.5 GHz. It features a resolution of 1 Hz and a sweep speed of up to 100 ms/s. The FSW85000 also has a variety of features, including a built-in signal generator, a math function generator, and a cursoring tool.
- Anritsu MS2720B: The Anritsu MS2720B is a compact and portable spectrum analyzer with a frequency range of 9 kHz to 2.7 GHz. It features a resolution of 1 Hz and a sweep speed of up to 100 ms/s. The MS2720B also has a variety of display options, including a waterfall plot, a bar graph, and a spectrogram.
A rack mount spectrum analyzer is a valuable tool for troubleshooting and analyzing electronic systems. By considering the factors listed in this guide, you can choose the best rack mount spectrum analyzer for your needs.