Current soldering stations recommendation...

[Bob Simpson]

Hi All.

I've done the searching, and it seems all the soldering stations I could afford are discontinued, and my weller soldering pencils aren't making it any more...

Hakko 936, Xytron 137, even the less expensive Wellers are more expensive these days. The Radio Shack station is even coming in around $80USD...

I can't bring myself to spend multi hundreds for a station.
I'm a hobbyist, and have some inkling of my limitations. ( Both monetary and need... )

Are the circuit specialist stations any good, or am I just going to have to bite this one?

TIA

Bob Simpson

[surfsup]

The weller WES51 seems to get good reviews here:

http://www.google.com/#sclient=psy&hl=e ... 1cefa9981c

I am thinking of getting it. I don't know what radio shack you're going to but the one here has soldering irons (15/30w) for about $20. I have one but am going to upgrade myself. I use google to search TAG, works very well.

[NickC]

I use a Hakko 936 and love it. Best I've ever used. It is now discontinued and replaced by the FX-888.

Here is a link to the supplier (I don't have an interest in the firm, I'm just a satisfied customer) I used for the 936 (bought @ "close out" price) .... and the replacement for the 936 model. You might find the replacement price point perfect ..... and I expect you'd be far more pleased with a Hakko than a Radio Shack:

http://www.hmcelectronics.com/cgi-bin/s ... Kgod9FrLCQ

Happy Iron Shopping



edited to correct model number ..... correct model is Hakko FX-888 ........ not FX-988

[xtian]

I love my BlackJack BK2000. It's no longer available but it's better version is, for only $55:

http://www.circuitspecialists.com/prod.itml/icOid/9748

[dartanion]

I love my Hakko 936. It has been great and was thinking of grabbing another one as my travel solder station, but haven't. I'll have to check out their new offerings, or check my local Fry's for close outs on the 936.

[Randy Magee]

I also give a thumbs up for the Hakko 936... great product!

[Deric]

I have both a Hakko 936 and a Weller WES51. Both are great. I like the feel of the Hakko a little better.

I do like that the Weller has an auto shut-off. If the Hakko had that it would be perfect.

[Bob Simpson]

Thanks, folks.

After searching, I was looking for either the Hakko 936, or the Xytronics 137, but they are both discontinued. I waited too long, once again.

I've no experience with the Black jack unit, but the price is right.

I don't want to buy junk, but this is not for full pro duty use, so the mega buck units are out...

I appreciate the recommendations.

Bob

[xtian]

I've no experience with the Black jack unit, but the price is right.

I know, right? I hadn't heard of it either, but am very happy. I've put about 20 hours on mine. Heats up in less than 60 seconds, good temp control, precise gun with lots of inexpensive tips available as accessories.

[David Root]

I have two WES51s, one on each bench, one with a chisel tip the other with a pencil tip. Works for me.

The older of the two recently lost its auto shut-off, so I use that mostly as a backup.

[FunkyE9th]

I use Hakko 936 and have been very happy with it. You can still get them at Fry's.... http://www.frys.com/product/454489?site ... IN_RSLT_PG

[Bob Simpson]

That site says they're unavailable.

I suppose some may come in...

I'll keep watch.

Thanks.

Bob

[DonMoose]

Based on my experience with the Hakko 936 vs assprted Weller and Metcal setups, I'd go for another Hakko.

The FX-888 is the US replacement for the 936 and the SRP seems a good match.

Fry's says $85:
http://www.frys.com/product/6508443?sit ... IN_RSLT_PG

Hope this helps!

[FunkyE9th]

That site says they're unavailable.

I suppose some may come in...

I'll keep watch.

Thanks.

Bob

Sorry, should have read the fine print. Saw the picture and price and assumed it was available.

[selloutrr]

Weller digital hands down the best soldering iron I've owned 100% reliable. built in tip saving - auto cool when in craddle. reheats to full temp in seconds.

Haiko are also very nice soldering stations - even the entry level is pretty good the down side - they are hard to find tips for in the USA.