Paging Metcal users - Andy and others

[ruairioflaherty]

Hi all,

I bought a used Metcal SP200 from a fellow member about 3 months back.  It has been a revelation, I have owned and used Hakko and Weller for years but the Metcal is in another league.  I recently put together a Sound Skulptor MC624 and it was the most fun I've ever had assembling a piece of gear.

I've just been offered a MX500 kit in great condition for a great price.  How much better is it?  I know there is a de-soldering option that may be useful in the future.  Any other thoughts?

Thanks,
Ruairi

 

[Andy Peters]

Hi all,

I bought a used Metcal SP200 from a fellow member about 3 months back.  It has been a revelation, I have owned and used Hakko and Weller for years but the Metcal is in another league.  I recently put together a Sound Skulptor MC624 and it was the most fun I've ever had assembling a piece of gear.

I've just been offered a MX500 kit in great condition for a great price.  How much better is it?  I know there is a de-soldering option that may be useful in the future.  Any other thoughts?

I assume that I'm the "Andy" you're addressing ...

The main differences between the 200 and the 500 are that the latter has two ports so you can have two different tools available at the same time, and also a larger selection of tips for doing large QFPs and the like. And yes, it does support a vacuum desoldering tool (needs shop air, I think).

I mean, if it's a "good price," I'd say go for it. Nothing wrong with having three tools available at a time.

-a

 

[ruairioflaherty]

Thanks Andy,

You are absolutely the Andy I meant, and your posts are the reason I picked up the SP200, thank you again.

So, two ports and more tip options.  That's pretty much as I had read.  Is there any great difference in the handling/feel of the iron or the soldering performance of the tips on the 500?

I need to research the desoldering option.

Cheers,
Ruairi