Ph'ing my water correctly?

[melodious fellow]

I've been using the aquarium test kits (test tube - color indicator chart) for many years, and I do adjust my water first to 6.9 to 7.0, then add nutes.
I'm on a fixed income, tho...and can not justify buying a new ph probe, when I have been able to live without one for many years.

Is this optimal...no.

It might just be, Rusty!

After spending $20 on a cheapo meter, $25 on another meter, and finally $35 on a electronic probe.....

I had to buy the $7 liquid test because all of the above is bullshit.

peace