tool recommendations for a first time builder

[cjoh242]

I new to the forum and new to DIY amps. Thus I need to make certain I have the right tools to begin with so I do not have that going against me too. Any recommendations on a soldering iron station, flux, solder and or any other tools (as specific as you can be) that I should purchase while I undertake my new hobby and passion.

thanks for your time in advance, btw I was not really that successful with my search attempts. If you know of a thread, please provide links and I will read away!!!
CJJ

[galyons]

Grainger posted a good bit of info.  Read through this thread:
http://bottlehead.com/smf/index.php/topic,173.0.html

Any good 60/40 rosin core solder will work.  Eutectic solders such as Wonder or Cardas, IMO, are better to use. All of the metals in eutectic solders melt and solidify at the same temperature which makes for better joints.

Cheers,
Geary

[cjoh242]

thanks and I found the thread on the Tech tools forum. Working through it as we speak

[Grainger49]

Thanks, Geary.  I am going to modify it a little.  Things seem to be repeating themselves.  Cheap meters have been the cause of a number of threads.  Maybe we should have a recommended inexpensive meter thread?

[JamieMcC]

I have a couple of pairs of medical forceps one straight the other with a slight curve and use them all the time. They have little notches on the handles so can be locked in position easily, very handy for holding parts & wires in place.

They also act as a good heat sink and can help protect components from being overheated when soldering a very handy tool. Only a couple of dollars off of ebay.   

(https://forum.bottlehead.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.ebayimg.com%2Ft%2F6-150mm-STRAIGHT-STAINLESS-STEEL-LOCKING-PEAN-FORCEPS-%2F00%2Fs%2FMTAyNFg3Njg%3D%2Fz%2F6FsAAOxy0QBSRFJH%2F%24%28KGrHqVHJBUFI3hghUVDBSRFJHj3oQ%7E%7E60_12.JPG&hash=9a001acd4015d4396c6a64797b1bebdfffcb882c)