Naw, I have a TDS meter for my little DWC hydroponics setup, but that's all I use it for.

I wouldn't invest a lot of money in something like that. There are prime PH ranges (not sure what TDS is) but if you are not having problems, then why bother. If you are growing in ground that has worked before, then you should be good to go. If you are growing in containers and use a standard or well know soil mix, then you should be fine. If this is your first year growing either way, then I would say just plant them and see what happens. But that is just me and I try to not get too fancy or extravagant. There are others who wouldn't dream of growing anything without having their soil tested professionally. Peppers seem to be pretty adaptive in my opinion and that is one of the reasons I enjoy growing them.
Bruce

If you're growing in containers and in the ground, your money would be better spent on lights. pH and TDS meters are very useful if you're doing hydroponics.

A TDS (total dissolved solids) meter is a very useful tool to have. It puts fertilizing into perspective and will aid someone in correct nutrient doses. They are not expensive; I would recommend "HM TDS-3" here is a link to the one that I have about $24.00 not sure about the seller haven't bought from them maybe you can find a better deal. Don't waste your money on anthing else it's all just the same. This meter converts EC to TDS in PPM.

Eric

Here is a link that might be useful: http://www.ebay.com/itm/TDS-3-Water-Quality-Meter-Tester-RO-DI-System-ppm-temp-HM-Digital-Handheld-gauge-/350492509278?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0amp;hash=item519afb445e