Recommendations for a few new machines

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Right now i have a xmt-304 multi process machine, most work is done with Mig, but tig is used as well with this machine. This machine has some serious hours under its belt and is starting to have electrical issues, i believe it is time to have the mother board replaced. I have been thinking about getting 2 new machines for the shop, a dedicated mig and dedicated tig machine. I am not brand loyal, but have always had miller machines. The xmt is an excellent mig setup, but the tig adjustments are basic. My choices are the Miller 252 or the lincoln 256 for mig, and the Miller syncrowave 250 or the lincoln precision tig 225.The price for the 256 and 252 are so close it is a toss up, but the precision tig full set up was around $2400 ready to go with wheel kit and everything except a cylinder, this is considerably lower then the syncrowave. So what say you weldingweb, is there a preference by the masses for one or the other of any of the machines listed above.If i did more tig work, i would without a doubt purchase a miller dynasty 280 set up and not look back, it is just not needed, and i rrally do not want to spend that much on a tig set up. Any input one way or the other on these machines would be appreciated.
Reply:I have the baby brother to the Precision TIG. Great machine. If I were looking for a new transformer machine, I wouldn't hesitate on the PT225.
Reply:I have a 252 and a pt225.  Both are great machines.  I just saw someone post a 252 with spool gun in the sale section but I think it was in Louisiana.
Reply:I think i would get another XMT 304 for mig, and hunt for a used Syncrowave 250 for tig.Mike
Reply:Originally Posted by leightrepairsI think i would get another XMT 304 for mig, and hunt for a used Syncrowave 250 for tig.Mike
Reply:What tig process is essential to you?  AC makes the entire price change.  If you're only interested in DC tig, the TA multiprocess machines have gotten great reviews.  I believe the 252 (?251) has run in control, inductance control, and gives you stick and DC tig ability.  I've not seen a bad thing written about them and you'll get two extra processes for the same price.Are you looking for pulse?
Reply:What's the issue you don't like with tig on the XMT 304? I've used the XMTs a for bit with dc tig and I've never been disappointed. Lift start is fine with me for dc tig.JasonLincoln Idealarc 250 stick/tigThermal Dynamics Cutmaster 52Miller Bobcat 250Torchmate CNC tableThermal Arc Hefty 2Ironworkers Local 720
Reply:Went to my local Praxair and Cameron supply and checked out machines on friday. I think the lincoln 256 is the unit i am going to get, both migs are basically priced the same give or take, i figure i cant go wrong with either. I want a dedicated tig setup, the precision tig 225 with all the bells and whistles fits my needs and is priced right for a of of the box unit good to go aside from a cylinder.  Most of my tig is DC, but am starting to a bit more AC, just need more practice and a sit down with a good aluminum tig for some pointers. So, it looks like my shop is going from blue to red.
Reply:Buy the 256 we run them in production,look at HTP for a tig.
Reply:HTP 2400 is a bargan too, 1400 for 240 amps .