Good,Inexpensive Bench Power Supply

[dlt123me]

Hi all...  I was led here by the electronic tutorial videos on Youtube, done by mjlorton.  His videos were precise, honest, easy to understand and very helpful... Just what I needed to excite my interest in electronics and draw me forward.  So thanks mjlorton...

I am just starting to venture into learning electronics and have some stuff already... but I know I will eventually need to get a small bench power supply...

Can anyone suggest a good, inexpensive, well made bench power supply that will not cost an arm and leg?

I have searched Amazon and other places for a good PS, but most in the price range I am looking at are rubbish from what I deduce from those who have bought them.

Is there a good PS for the beginner that is safe, accurate, well made and inexpensive? As they say, I am not looking to build a space shuttle, but just want one to pacify my small hobby needs... and one that will last. 

Am I being realistic in hoping to find one in the $50 - $120 range or  will I have to rethink selling my first born for scientific research in order to get a good unit?

All suggestions are welcomed, even if they are outside my price range.  Also, I live in the United States, so it has to be 110...

Note: Also, suggesting I build one is out the question at this point with my electronics abilities.

Thanks in advance for fielding my question,
Dennis

[TechJunkie]

If your on a budget and want to get the best bang for your buck, the Korad KA3005D is a fairly decent PSU for getting started. The reviews are mixed some bad, some good. I bought one to test myself, and it has been solid, even running at the max rated amp output. The resolution and programmable design are good for the money. It also has a smaller footprint than some bigger multi-channel linear supplies.

Also, look at some of the Mastech PSU's.

Mid to High range, Look at Rigol, IsoTech

Top of the range, Look at HP, Agilent, Keithly

Here is the Amazon link for the Korad.

http://www.amazon.com/KORAD-KA3005D-Precision-Adjustable-Regulated/dp/B0084JFWNY

[dlt123me]

Thanks, I am actually looking at the Korad and for my needs, I think this is what I will get.  I watched several videos on this unit and even though an earlier unit failed testing, it looks like it has been remedied and is getting good reviews from this point.

I will also look at the  others you mentioned and I appreciate your feedback.

Dennis

[Tony3dd]

I bought the Korad about 4 months ago, and mine has performed very well indeed! I have not had one issue. Love the small footprint as I don't have a lot of space. Bought mine from SRA Solder, and I will say they are great to deal with! Just talk to Doug, and ask him to check it out before it's shipped. Bought an Aoyue Solder Station from them that developed an issue about 4 months in, and they sent me a brand new unit, no questions asked! You can buy there with confidence that they will stand behind it. The Korad has worked flawlessly, and is left on all day most if the time. Even ran it through a bit of a torcher test with no I'll effects. Every feature works correctly, and even the fan on mine seems  quiet enough. Paid $109.00 for mine.  Good luck.