Online sources for soldering equipment

[JimmyM]

I'm looking for a soldering iron/station that won't break the bank.

It has to be 40-50W, and have replacable tips.

I was looking at a Weller SL345 (non-variable) with a few tips.

Basically I'm looking for someplace on-line where I can do some browsing and weigh soldering irons versus stations. I do think that the 24V digital stations are a bit much.

Any help guys?
Thanks.

 

[datiLED]

I'm looking for a soldering iron/station that won't break the bank.

It has to be 40-50W, and have replacable tips.

I was looking at a Weller SL345 (non-variable) with a few tips.

Basically I'm looking for someplace on-line where I can do some browsing and weigh soldering irons versus stations. I do think that the 24V digital stations are a bit much.

Any help guys?
Thanks.

Circuit Specialists.

I have the Xytronic station, and the CSI station. I like them both, but prefer the Xytronic for through hole work, and the CSI for SMD work, as I got the fine tips for it. I use this tip cleaner instead of a sponge, and would recommend that you give it a try. I liked it so much I bought another one with my new station.

 

[MorePower]

I second the CSI station linked by datiLED. It's quick to heat up, comes with an extra element, and Circuit Specialists has a bunch of reasonably priced tips for it as well.

Don't forget your free gift code if you order $50+ from them.

 

[DonShock]

I'm looking for a soldering iron/station that won't break the bank.......and weigh soldering irons versus stations......

I had to face the same decisions a while back. I finally decided on this Weller WLC100 station as a good mid-level compromise. It is a variable 40 watt station with a good variety of tips available. I've been using it to do all my mods and have been very satisfied. And I've had plenty of power available, rarely going over halfway up on the dial. I had initially thought of going to a 50 watt iron, but the 40 watt has been plenty.

The only limitation I am starting to run into is for SMD work. Even the tiniest tip available for this unit seems huge when trying to replace some of the miniscule components on driver boards.

 

[LuxLuthor]

I have been using my Hakko 936 quite a lot, and really love it, but Wellers are well respected too. I found it on sale at Emsco. Also this thread discusses the topic.