Rather then a function generator, a sine wave oscillator 20 - 20kHZ with really low distortion, say 10 times lower then the distortion that you would expect to get from your products. And to match it a noise and distortion measuring set or a wave analyser (audio form of a spectrum analyser).
With a suitable load, you can then set up the rated power output by measuring the voltage with the CRO, then measure the frequency response and distortion.
Trying out synthesizers (audio I presume) only requires a CRO. Alternators require a suitable load and power measuring equipment, the CRO or DVM woulld be enough for this ( P = V^2 /R).
Frank