which 211?

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Ok so I'm down to the wire and ready to pull the trigger.  I'm either going to get the MM211 or the TA211.  I'm ordering it Monday.  I started off stick welding I need a mig capable machine I'm starting an auto restor project real soon.  I'm looking at these two machines they are both right in my price range.  I'm really leaning to the TA. I like the idea of the 3 in 1.  Having the ability to run 3/33 on 115v away from the garage would be a big benefit.  I've got a buz box at the house but its a PIA to run on a generator.  I do not know how to tig but I want to learn which is another benefit.   How well does the TA run mig vs the MM?  If the TA is a so so welding machine I'll go with the MM.  How well do both machines run on 115v? Thanks.
Reply:They are both good machines but since you like the added features of the TA go with the TAEd Conleyhttp://www.screamingbroccoli.com/MM252MM211 (Sold)Passport Plus & Spool gunLincoln SP135 Plus- (Gone to a good home)Klutch 120v Plasma cutterSO 2020 benderBeer in the fridge
Reply:Well I guess you are right. I need to stop over thinking welding machines.  If I had the cash I'd get the 252i but I kind of need a machine that will run on 115v.  I think Imma take your advice.Miller Maxstar 200 strMontgomery Ward 250 AC/DC
Reply:(I'm a first-time poster here, and wannabe welder...)I'm facing the same choice between TA211i and MM211, but I'm leaning towards the Miller myself.  The TA is DC only, so doesn't that mean no real TIG on aluminum?  Plus lift-start, so no pedal control of heat?  I like the idea of an all-in-1, but I already have an old Lincoln stick buzz box, and really don't see myself doing anything more than playing with the TIG, trying to teach myself...  That brought me back to the Miller, which seems like a well respected machine that does MIG well, especially for a 110/220 machine.Either way, let's hear how you like whichever one you get.  It might sway some of us...
Reply:I have no need to tig aluminum.  If I found myself needed to weld aluminum I would most likely just get a spool gun.  Also the majority of welders that I know that are running tig don’t even use any foot control for heat they just manipulate the torch.  I could be totally wrong but I think it would be very difficult to work a foot pedal when out of position welding, which I find myself doing a lot more than I thought I would.  I still may dive into the Miller I already have two stick machines.  But I like the idea of having the ability to run stick and mig from the same machine.Miller Maxstar 200 strMontgomery Ward 250 AC/DC
Reply:Originally Posted by Bob408SSThe TA is DC only, so doesn't that mean no real TIG on aluminum?  Plus lift-start, so no pedal control of heat?
Reply:I asked around and looked into it, the 211i can use the same foot pedal as the 252i the connector is right on front.  I think I'm going with the TA 211i and ill add the tig torch and a spool gun later.Miller Maxstar 200 strMontgomery Ward 250 AC/DC
Reply:I have the TA252i and i got nothing bad to say about it and i wouldn't change it for the worldLincoln Power Arc 4000 Thermal Arc Fabricator 252 iThermal arc 186Thermal Arc 26 tigTweeko 200 amp spool gunHobart AirForce 400WP-17V-12R
Reply:From what I have learned over the years is: Go with the color that best matches everything already in your shop, you'll never know the difference.
Reply:Originally Posted by VPTFrom what I have learned over the years is: Go with the color that best matches everything already in your shop, you'll never know the difference.
Reply:Originally Posted by ZapzooI like that statement, it will be repeated.