Okay, so my Weller TC202 shit the bed. Looks like the thermal switch is out and it's $33 or so to get another. Considering I bought it a decade ago for a princely $10 bill at the pawn shop, I can't bitch all that much.
Right now I'm looking for $100 or less, something entry level to mid range-ish. This is what I've come up with.
FRYS.com*|*AOYUE
This is one of my big finalists, it mentions closed loop temp regulation which is important to me.
FRYS.com*|*American Hakko
This is towards the higher end. Assuming it's closed loop. Has feature like a lock code for temp I don't think I'll use.
FRYS.com*|*AOYUE
This is about the same price says it has closed loop temp feedback. Also uses Hakko tips which is nice.
The Weller stations seem to be at $110-150 at Frys until you go high end. Any reason I should pay the premium besides the name? My goal is high value and I'm willing to pay a few bucks more for quality but I am a hobbyist who definitely uses their gear but not a pro. Application is PCBs, car wiring and likely some tube amplifiers.
Right now I'm looking for $100 or less, something entry level to mid range-ish. This is what I've come up with.
FRYS.com*|*AOYUE
This is one of my big finalists, it mentions closed loop temp regulation which is important to me.
FRYS.com*|*American Hakko
This is towards the higher end. Assuming it's closed loop. Has feature like a lock code for temp I don't think I'll use.
FRYS.com*|*AOYUE
This is about the same price says it has closed loop temp feedback. Also uses Hakko tips which is nice.
The Weller stations seem to be at $110-150 at Frys until you go high end. Any reason I should pay the premium besides the name? My goal is high value and I'm willing to pay a few bucks more for quality but I am a hobbyist who definitely uses their gear but not a pro. Application is PCBs, car wiring and likely some tube amplifiers.