RIGOL MSO5074 Oscilloscope under $999 (in 2024)
Only read if you are seeking a serious oscilloscope. This baby is impressive. Our team here at Oscilloscope Pros recently got our hands on the famous Rigol MSO5074. Yes, it did. It exceeded our expectations. We bow down to Rigol.
Don’t forget to also peruse our oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and other electronics lab tools.
With four channels and a 70 MHz bandwidth, this oscilloscope can handle a wide range of digital and mixed-signal applications. The 8GS/s real-time sample rate and 100Mpoint memory depth ensure that you can capture even the most complex waveforms.
Pros
- High sample rate without aliasing or bandwidth limiting.
- Manual controls along with touch screen and mouse.
- HDMI port for connecting to displays.
- Separate controls for the 4 channels.
Cons
- Early versions may have had old firmware with bugs.
- Firmware updates from Rigol may be limited.
- Readings may be inconsistent in certain probing rates.
- Internal 50 ohm termination may be lacking for some users.
One of the standout features of the MSO5074 is the 16 digital channels that are included. While you do need to purchase the optional PLA2216 logic probe to operate them, this is a small price to pay for the added functionality.
The only downside I’ve found so far is the high noise level in signals under 10mV, but this is a minor issue compared to the overall performance of the oscilloscope.
Rigol MSO5074 Oscilloscope Overview
From the get-go, when I got my hands on the Rigol MSO5074, I was impressed by its four-channel, 70 MHz digital/mixed signal oscilloscope capabilities. With a real-time sample rate of up to 8 GSa/s and 100 Mpts memory depth, this oscilloscope can handle even the most complex waveforms. Plus, it comes with 16 digital channels included, although you’ll need to purchase the optional PLA2216 logic probe to operate them.
One of the standout features of the MSO5074 is its UltraVision technology, which provides a clear and detailed display of signals. The oscilloscope is also easy to use, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface. However, at 11.95 pounds, it’s not the most portable oscilloscope on the market.
70 MHz Bandwidth
As I was using the Rigol MSO5074 Oscilloscope, I was impressed with its true 70 MHz bandwidth. The signal clarity and accuracy were exceptional, and it was easy to distinguish between signals even in complex circuits.
The 4-channel, digital/mixed signal oscilloscope is perfect for analyzing and debugging circuits. With its high bandwidth, it can capture fast signals and display them with high precision. The MSO5074 also has a large 10.1-inch display, making it easy to view waveforms and data.
One thing to note is that the MSO5074 is not the most portable oscilloscope due to its size and weight. However, if you are looking for a powerful and reliable oscilloscope for your lab or workspace, the MSO5074 is an excellent choice.
Multi-Channel Analysis
When it comes to multi-channel analysis, the Rigol MSO5074 oscilloscope is a top-performing product. With four channels and a real-time sample rate of up to 8 GSa/s, this oscilloscope is perfect for analyzing multiple signals simultaneously. The 100 Mpts memory depth, which can be expanded up to 200 Mpts, ensures that you have enough storage space to capture long signals.
The MSO5074 also includes 16 digital channels, although you will need to purchase the optional PLA2216 logic probe to operate them. This is a great feature for those who need to analyze digital signals in addition to analog signals.
High Sample Rate
With 4 analog channels and 16 digital channels, this oscilloscope can capture up to 10GSa/s in real-time mode. This means that I was able to capture even the smallest details of my signals, making it easier for me to analyze them.
The high sample rate also makes it possible to capture and decode complex signals, making it a great tool for troubleshooting digital circuits.
Deep Memory Capacity
The deep memory capacity is one of its key features. With a memory depth of up to 200 Mpts, I was able to capture and analyze long and complex waveforms with ease. This feature came in handy when I tested it to debug intricate circuits.
The memory capacity also allows me to capture and store multiple waveforms at once, which I can then analyze and compare side by side. This has saved me a lot of time and effort, especially when working on large projects that involve multiple waveforms.
However, it’s worth noting that with the increased memory capacity comes a higher price tag. But if you’re someone who needs to work with complex waveforms on a regular basis, you will be left happy.
Digital Channels Integration
With 16 digital channels included, this oscilloscope allows you to analyze both analog and digital signals simultaneously. However, please note that you will need to purchase an optional PLA2216 logic probe to operate the digital channels.
The digital channels can be easily configured in the oscilloscope’s interface, and the signal quality is excellent. I found it very useful to be able to capture and analyze both analog and digital signals in one place. The ability to decode serial protocols on the digital channels was also a nice touch.
Rigol MSO5074 Ease of Use
The Rigol MSO5074 oscilloscope was straightforward and intuitive to use. The touchscreen interface is responsive and easy to navigate, and I appreciate the clear and organized layout of the menus and settings. The built-in web interface is also a nice touch, allowing me to control the oscilloscope remotely from my computer.
One minor complaint I have is the resistive touch screen, which can sometimes require a bit more pressure to register inputs accurately. However, this is a minor issue and does not detract from the overall ease of use of the oscilloscope.
Rigol MSO5074 Customer Reviews
I read various forums and marketplaces on the web and discovered some nice reviews. One reviewer mentioned that there is no other scope within this price range that comes close to the features offered by the MSO5074. Another reviewer mentioned that they were very happy with the MSO5074 as a hobbyist, citing its best-in-class sampling rate, memory depth, waveform capture rate, and record length as standout features. However, one reviewer did mention that they experienced high noise levels in <10mV, which was concerning to read. Overall, the majority of the reviews were positive on the MSO5074’s performance and affordability.
Reviewer Final Comments
After using the Rigol MSO5074 for one week of testing, I must say that I am thoroughly impressed with its performance and features. So too are my colleagues here are Oscilloscope Pros. The sampling rate, memory depth, waveform capture rate, and record length are all top-notch, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists and professionals alike. The touch screen, although resistive, is incredibly useful, and the web interface over LAN is a nice touch.
One of the best things about this oscilloscope is its price. At under $1000, it offers features that are unheard of in this price range.
To make a long story short, the Rigol MSO5074 is worth the money. It is a reliable and smooth machine that can unlock all features and turn into a super scope. I highly recommend it to experienced users. Newbies and beginners should target lower-cost options that we have reviewed in the past. Experienced techies who don’t want the high price tag should look at our mid-tier recommendation Rigol DS1054Z.
