Soldering Stations

[TheoG]

Hey all.

So as I'm starting off in the world of electronics, I thought it a good idea to invest in a decent soldering station.

Obviously I want all the best features, but at a very reasonable price 

Can anyone offer some options, and what to look out for?

@ Martin --> Do you use the RS DS80 ? http://za.rs-online.com/web/p/soldering-stations/6654789/

i thought I saw it or something similar to it on your worbench during a video 

Cheers!

[retiredcaps]

Can anyone offer some options, and what to look out for?

If you live in North America, the Hakko FX888 is very popular.  I invested in one (hopefully for lifetime) for $88.88 CDN (on sale).

[MJLorton]

Hi Theo,

My soldering station is the model below that...the RS DS50: http://za.rs-online.com/web/p/soldering-stations/0186719/

It's far better than the plain soldering iron I used to use but I could certainly nit pick a few issues with it...I should do a quick review when I have a moment....

The soldering iron holder is very light and needs extra weight to keep it "planted"...and if I had the option of a silicone lead that would be great. The one on the RS DS50 is stiff and always gets in the way...I should find a way to "soften" it.

I think Retiredcaps  suggestion of the Hakko FX888 is a very wise one. It is used by many folks and has excellent reviews by most.

And if you are in the US...you can get it here: http://astore.amazon.com/m0711-20/detail/B004M3U0VU  ;-)

Cheers,
Martin.

[retiredcaps]

And if you are in the US...you can get it here: http://astore.amazon.com/m0711-20/detail/B004M3U0VU  ;-)

$80.72 USD + free shipping is a good price from a highly reputable seller.  If you are in the USA, there is no need to buy off ebay as there are reports of counterfeit models making there way onto the market.

I personally love the blue and yellow color.