Hobby task
Test an audio filter with the Rigol DS1054Z
Task: compare the input and output of an audio filter or analogue stage so you can see gain, attenuation, clipping and phase behaviour.
Connect input and output
Put channel 1 on the signal entering the filter and channel 2 on the filter output. Use the same ground reference and keep probe grounds short. Feed the circuit with a known sine wave or audio test signal at a safe level for the circuit.
Compare the waveforms
Set both channels to similar vertical scales where possible. Sweep the signal frequency and watch how the output amplitude changes. A low-pass filter should reduce higher frequencies; a high-pass filter should reduce lower frequencies. If the waveform flattens or distorts, the circuit may be clipping or overloaded.
Use extra channels when needed
The DS1054Z has enough inputs to compare more than one stage. For example, use channel 3 after a buffer or amplifier and channel 4 on a supply rail to check whether distortion appears when the rail sags.
What you get out of it
You can move from “it sounds wrong” to a visible reason: too much attenuation, clipping, noise, phase shift or unstable power.