First time purchasing a welder

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Hey guys,Back story:Back in high school I was a pretty proficient welder (at least I like to think so). Anywho, I'm a pretty big race car junkey, and I'm getting ready to build a new race car. Instead of purchasing pre-built intake and exhaust systems, or paying a shop to custom make them, I want to build my own.My dilemma:I don't know much about the configurations of a Tig machine, as they were pretty much all purpose setup back in high school. So now I'm ready to purchase myself a Tig machine. I want to be able to weld both aluminum and stainless. The only 220V outlet in my house is for the dryer (I can use this outlet if the welder shares the same plug style). Will I need separate machines for aluminum and stainless? Whats the difference in setting up a machine to weld aluminum vs steel?Thanks a bunch for any help!
Reply:aluminum is welded on AC, and steel is welded on DC. i would very highly recommend ordering the student package from miller as it is a great place to start.Dynasty 200DXPassport plus w/ spoolmate 100victor 315c oxy/(act and prop)Miller digital elitemilwaukee power tools
Reply:Ah ok, is that AC / DC the input or output voltage type? If it's the output, do most machines have the ability to swap between AC and DC output? or is that only in the high end machines?Thanks
Reply:output voltage.about half of the machines that most beginners consider are only DCthe miller diversion 165 or 180 (i think the 165 is 1200 or so, and the 180 is 1700 or so) might be a great fit for you if they have enough output. when i bought my first tig welder i bought an old workhorse from the eighties for $100 or so and fixed it up to useable condition.also, you need high frequency on ac to help with arc starting and stability.foot pedals are pretty great tooDynasty 200DXPassport plus w/ spoolmate 100victor 315c oxy/(act and prop)Miller digital elitemilwaukee power tools