[checha31]

Hi,
 
I am looking at the New & Improved 2016 X-Tronic MODEL 5040-XR2 All In One Hot Air Rework Soldering Iron Station With Preheater.
 
I plan on using the same for quite a few DIY projects and plan on keeping it around.
 
The reviews on the previous version are quite favorable but I rather get some input from this community.
 
If not the above, do you have any suggestions/alternatives?
 
Thanks

 

[kchapdaily]

If i were you i would get a nice namebrand iron like the new Hakko 888 and then use whatever budget you have left for a standalone rework station, or go with a combo and just use the iron as a secondary/backup. I had a cheap digital aoyue for a while, and it seemed ok, but a good iron just puts it to shame. Especially if you are going to be using it a lot.

 

[checha31]

Hi  kchapdaily,
 
Thanks for the quick feedback. I will certainly take a look at your suggestion.
~C

 

[kchapdaily]

No problemo. I am actually looking at getting a hot air station myself, i'll let you know if i find anything interesting!

 

[vapman]

get a hakko 888 and never look back... i cant say enough good about it
im an extremely satisfied owner of a 808 and a 888.

 

[kchapdaily]

  get a hakko 888 and never look back... i cant say enough good about it
im an extremely satisfied owner of a 808 and a 888.

 
I agree completely. I have an 888, it really is killer.

 

[AnyDave]

The Hakko 888 is a fantastic station for the money.
 
If you have a bit more to spend, I'm a big fan of the Metcal stations.  You can occasionally find a good deal on eBay.
 
The main advantage of getting one of the irons from the Hakko, Weller or Metcal is that replacement parts will be available for a long time.