Opinions on Oscilloscopes

Hi,

I'm in the process of teaching myself analog electronics. I figure that my
understanding of components and circuits will be enhanced by being able to
measure and view behaviour on a CRO.

Initially I'll be building low voltage circuits (9V, 12V) in both AC and DC.
But I would like to be able to measure mains (I think I just a differential
probe with any scope for this) later on.

My local ebay has two CROs that seem interesting and good value to me:
- a McVan BWD826
- a Tektronix 475

I've read elsewhere on sci.electronics good opinions about BWD824 and Tek
465b.

Opinions on the above?

Also, my other option is to buy a real cheap new 10MHz unit from a local
electronics store. A problem I see with it is that its minimum sensitiviy
is 5mV (I notice that usually it's 1mV or less). But, I guess 5mV is
probably small enough for my needs.

It's also single channel. For what I want to do, am I going to need 2
channels?

Opinions please?

Last question: if a scope says "Trigger Max. Input Voltage: 400V peak",
does that mean it will handle 240VAC input (I think 240VAC RMS is 400VDC)?
Would it still need a differential probe for this purpose?

tia,
RR


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