[sdiy] where the **** do I start...

[Tentochi]

Kevin--

The nice things about the Fatman (definitely not Phatman though) are the price
and the inclusion of most of what you need.

The "problem" for beginners with just buying a PCB (printed circuit board) is
that you have to acquire EVERYTHING yourself.  And rarely does this entail a
single vendor.  Beyond that, PCB only kits assume you have done this before and
generally back off in the documentation and helpful hints areas.  This is on
top of acquiring tools and learning how to do everything (not that it is too
difficult though).

My suggestion is to go with a complete kit and a helpful company.  Paia
definitely falls into this category.  Everyone keeps refering to the other side
of the tracks.  That side is the Synthesis Technology MOTM
(http://www.synthtech.com).  Incredible documentation, incredible part quality,
anal attention to detail, input from many users and designers.  You will be
building studio-quality modules that will last you a life time.  The down side
is that they are much more expensive than the Paia.

In reality, most (but not all) people grow beyond their Paias very quickly. 
But a springboard into the DIY world for thousands (at least hundreds!) of
people.

You really have to look at your budget and determine what is right for you.

I do recommend "full" kits for your first project or two to get your feet wet.
In will make life a lot easier.

The other thing I do recommend (although some may argue with this as well) is
to buy the best tools you can afford; you will not regret it.  These are items
that will get you started, take you through college and beyond!  But perhaps
your father already has you set up in this area.

I think the bug was subconsciously planted in me too when I say my father
building Heathkits at home in the late 60s and early/mid 70s.

Happy Soldering!!!
Todd

P.S.  If you build the Fatman, doing some of the mods after you have a working
Fatman will really take you to the next level IMO.

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