[sdiy] Soldering station decision

[Seb Francis]

Paul Maddox wrote:

> May I suggest the PACE heatwise?
>
> http://www.paceusa.com/_ShowSystemDetails.asp?ProductGroupID=1&ProductID=81
>
> Now , its a stouch more expensive (200UKP for the statioin, and 10UKP a tip,
> plus VAT)
> But it offers some great advantages.
>
> 1) Instant heat, From switch on to being able to solder takes about 30
> seconds.
> 2) Change tips whilst the iron is on.
> 3) change temperature via little 'plugin' modules.
> 4) A HUGE range of tips, inluding Waveflow tips for SMD soldering.
>
> I have one, if you're comming to the synthDIY thing you can have a try of
> mine..
> Its a truly superb soldering iron and an absolute JOY to use, Ive actually
> started enjoying soldering again because I do a decent job of it!

Sounds very nice!  But I have to say that the Antex is pretty good too .. takes about 60 seconds to heat up, you can change tips while hot (a bit fiddly sliding the little clip up with pliers tho), plenty of different tips (not sure about SMD - check their website) - and only 100GBP inc. VAT.

Seb