Hi,
First-time builder. Every time I solder, the solder balls up on the remaining solder line and doesn't stick to the wire. Furthermore, the solder does not melt if I hold the soldering-tip to the wire -- it only melts if I directly stick the solder onto the tip. I have soldered the first four joints by much trial and error, but I am not happy with them (they don't look flat, but lumpy and shiny). I'm using a cheapo Stahl Soldering station with temperature set to maximum (500 degrees); for solder using Kester 60/40 tin-lead.
-I have tried cleaning the tip.
-I have tried tinning the tip.
-I have tried yelling at the tip.
-I have watched the InnerFidelity video on soldering.
Please, please someone help! And if anyone has a moment, could someone post a close-up shot of what a properly soldered connection should look like?