description Heathkit IM-38 Overview
The Heathkit IM-38 is a vacuum-tube voltmeter sold by the Heath Company in kit form. It was intended for measuring alternating-current voltage in audio-frequency circuits and for checking amplifier behavior. Like other Heathkit instruments, it required the purchaser to assemble the supplied electronic components, wire the circuit, and complete basic testing before use. The model is relevant to the history of hands-on electronics and vintage audio test equipment.
help Heathkit IM-38 FAQ
What does the Heathkit IM-38 measure?
The IM-38 is a vacuum-tube AC voltmeter designed for low-level AC and audio measurements. Heathkit described it as useful for speech, music equipment, and laboratory analysis. ([Heathkit catalog](https://www.worldradiohistory.com/Archive-Catalogs/Heathkit-Catalogs/Heathkit-1969-800-93-summer.pdf))
What voltage and frequency ranges does the Heathkit IM-38 have?
The 1969 Heathkit catalog lists ten AC voltage ranges from 0.01 to 300 volts full scale and a frequency response from 10 Hz to 1 MHz. Actual performance depends on the condition and calibration of the individual vintage unit. ([Heathkit catalog](https://www.worldradiohistory.com/Archive-Catalogs/Heathkit-Catalogs/Heathkit-1969-800-93-summer.pdf))
How many vacuum tubes are in the Heathkit IM-38?
Reference data identifies two tubes in the IM-38, a 6AW8 and a 6EJ7. It is therefore a tube-era laboratory instrument, not a modern digital multimeter. ([Radiomuseum](https://www.radiomuseum.org/r/heath_im_38.html))
Was the Heathkit IM-38 sold as an assembly kit?
Yes. Heathkit sold the IM-38 as a kit that the purchaser assembled, which is why surviving units can differ in build quality and modification history. A complete original manual is important when restoring or servicing one. ([Heathkit assembly manual](https://ke9pq.com/heathkit-im-38-vacuum-tube-voltmeter-original-assembly-manual/))
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