Realistic APM-200 VU Power Meter

Today I’d like to show you a great conversation piece that I’ve got from the fellow audio enthusiast. Although it  looks quite cool and authentic – in today’s reality this device is practically obsolete. This is an RMS Power Meter, model APM 200 by Realistic. In other words – this is a VU power meter for your audio amplifier with gorgeous glowing backlight and dancing needles. Oh, RMS stands for “Root Mean Square value”, that’s math 🙂

This unit was produced under Realistic brand name owned by Radio Shack. The unit’s full model name is:

Realistic APM-200 Peak & RMS Audio Power Meter

APM-200 Audio Power Meter offers both precision analog meter movements along with fast acting LED metering providing you a fairly precise and accurate real-time picture of your audio signal levels coming out of your sound system.

If you connect this device properly to you amplifier you can see music dancing on the tips of the meter needles surrounded by the warm vintage glowing light!

The device has two needle indicators, power switch and sound power level selection switch. It is equipped with LEDs to display peak power values.

On the back side you can see speaker terminals. Using a thin wire the unit can be connected to the speaker terminals of your amplifier or receiver. These meters are designed to work in parallel with the speakers you use. The power meter impedance is very high so it presents virtually no load to the amplifier.

Pay attention to the speaker impedance selector. Make sure you use the setting that most closely matches your main speakers.  Don’t forget to power the device, yes it requires its own source of electrical power!

I like the analogue meters very much. They have super cool looks, nostalgic warm glow, and they are a nice companion to your favorite music listening experience! And hey! they can make some measurements too!

I’ve prepared a video with some cool features demonstration:

This unit is for sale, you can buy it in Revintages Shop:
Buy APM-200 Power VU Meter

Please check other great audio vintage items in our Revintages Shop.