Esab 0558101718 Ready to Weld Package - Water Cooled, Heliarc 283i 460

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Hi guys, Well, I'm about to splurge and get a Tig.  Wanted to just make sure I'm buying a solid unit.Tig will be for primarily hobby welding and learning how to Tig for the most part.  I was debating between this and the Miller Dynasty DX or a HTP unit.  I was really leaning towards the HTP, but availability issues.  http://www.weldfabulous.com/p-126903...-401f-dlx.aspxAny recommendations or bad experiences with the ESAB ?Thanks in advance
Reply:The 283 is 460v 3 phase only. If you don't have access to that get the 281. ESABs are solid unit but the ready to weld package isn't worth it. I would buy the components individualy so I getexactly what I want and save some money in the process. The 281 will be my next machine.NickESAB CaddyTig 2200iPowermax 45MM140 (Sold)
Reply:thank you.  Its interesting I'm curious as to why all these ready to weld packages are priced higher ?  Do you know if its true that the foot pedals are now CAN ?
Reply:The caddy series is can the Heliarcs are not. I paid nearly 500 to get a foot pedal. With a heliarc you can go to ssc controls and get one of theirs. It seems to be common to rob people with package deals. I'de never fork out the cash to any of the top manufacturers for the same reason but ESAB seems to be a bit worse. Love themachines though.NickESAB CaddyTig 2200iPowermax 45MM140 (Sold)
Reply:For a hobby machine that your just beginning to learn on, your spending some serious coin.JasonLincoln Idealarc 250 stick/tigThermal Dynamics Cutmaster 52Miller Bobcat 250Torchmate CNC tableThermal Arc Hefty 2Ironworkers Local 720
Reply:On the other hand, learning with quality gear means you can keep that machine without need to upgrade later.Welding equipment is very good at paying for itself over time.
Reply:ive been eyeballing the 281 also anybody with any info on these good, bad, to upgrade from my dynasty 200