[Ron Ramirez]

Steve

Welcome. Tackling your first vintage radio can seem to be a daunting task. Yes, there is a learning curve...but if this is something you really want to do, you can learn how. Just don't expect to become an "expert" overnight...I've been in this hobby for 36 years, and I still learn things every now and again.

You need to learn the basics of electricity and electronics. A good place to start is here:
http://www.antiqueradio.org/begin.htm

There are also books on the subject. Buy one or three, study them, ask questions, repeat.

Do you need a tube tester? I think this can best be answered by asking yourself another question..."Do I intend to buy and restore more old radios?" If the answer is yes, then yes, you should buy one. If not...then find someone close to you who is also involved with the antique radio hobby and see if he or she will be your mentor; someone you can learn from, use their tube tester, etc.

Above all...have fun! That is what a hobby is all about, after all.