Which multipurpose machine??

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Newbie just starting off. Looking for some help with selecting a good multipurpose machine.Having trouble sorting out all of the claims, differences and marketing stuff. The main use would be around the garage - thinner steel, sheet metal, ability to weld aluminum would be nice. No need to weld 1inch plate or heavy construction. Hoping to be around the 800-1200 mark, can't afford a 5K machine.Looking at:Lotos  LTPTDC2000  ($659) ebayTHREE-IN-ONE Digital Inverter Plasma Cutter (50A) / Tig Welder  (200A) / Stick (MMA) welder (200A).  IGBTLongevity WeldAll 200PI  ($1200 or so)200AMP IGBT AC DC TIG/SITCK WELDER + 50AMP PILOT ARC PLASMA CUTTER Everlast PowerMaster 205 ($ 1200-1450)50A Plasma Cutter and 200a Arc and TIG Welder ComboFeedback or other suggestions?Thanks
Reply:You said that you are just starting??? There are lot of people on here with a lot of years at welding. I think that a three in one combo for starting out is not the way to go. If one unit is down and you have to send your combo to the shop...... opppsssss what now, there is the money issue. The price on some combos are hard to beat, but then there are parts issues. I think you would pick up a Mig, look at the Hobarts or Millers 140 thru 211. And then work your way up from thereBest of luck
Reply:Two of the brands you mention have forums here that you could have posted your question on instead of the general forum."Newbie just starting off. Looking for some help with selecting a good multipurpose machine."    Also your request is a little difficult to understand since you used the word "good" and then list the brands your looking at.
Reply:We also have Giant Tech represented in Other Manufacturers forum. Well if you totally new to welding meaning you have never welded before I would think twice before you rush out to buy any welder. You may want to sign up for a couple of welding classes first! That would give you a basic understanding of welding as well as let you experience some of the various types of welders that are available. Also make up a list of projects you want to tackle as well as any future projects. The list of types of projects you have will help you decide which type of welder you really need.Co-Own CNC shop:Miller :1251 plasma cutter, MaxStar 700 TIG/Stick, & XMT 456 Multiprocess Welder.&  2 Hypertherm HPR260's Plasma CutterSorry I had a bad stroke but now I am back.
Reply:Would also add the search function is a handy tool, not two weeks ago I used it for multiprocess welders and found a plethora of threads regarding different models.Welcome to the forum!
Reply:Just a few more details.I work as hobby on classic cars and understand that good tools last longer. There does seem to be a happy middle in some areas - good quality, decent price ($10, $200, and $2000 tool sets).  I did buy a new Hobart 187 Mig welder and have access to a stick welder. My dad was a welder for years and has worked on all types of metal but always had the advantage of company bought commercial manufacturing machines for side projects. He retires this month (not welding for the last 8 years or so) and has offered to train me. I did try a search function but did not see the three listed in comparison or seemed to be "sponsored" views. I consider the multipurpose due the desire for plasma cutting and tig. If they are all junk, I am open to suggests on the plasma and tig. Thanks
Reply:Thermal Dynamics makes the Cutmaster 39 it has a max  cut of 5/8" and can be bought for under $1k.For the under 1k price tag, you won't find a better plaz. Also the Cutmaster 39 can run off 110V or 220V and comes with extra consumables.As for a entry tig option check out Miller's Diversion 165.It's AC/DC comes as a complete package with acessories for about $1400.You already have mig covered, and if you're doing auto work, I wouldn't worry about stick.CWI, CWE, CST for Miller, Lincoln, Thermadyne, Hypertherm & ESABMillermatic 350PLincoln Invertec 205 AC/DCVictor combo torchESAB PCM 1125
Reply:Think there is a thermal. Dynamics. TA 185. Or TA 200 that is about 2k and has decent capacity for most tig and stick jobsG