Which TIG models to consider?

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I have an inverter based TIG welder that is AC/DC up to 200 amps with HF start, lift arc, pre and post flow timers, stick and TIG capability.  I want to replace it with some thing similar of a reliable brand.  I work with steel and aluminum.  The 200 amps is enough for me but I wouldn't mind being able to go 225 amps though I don't see a need to go beyond that.  I'd like to stay with inverter technology mostly because I just don't have a lot of space.  I'm a hobby welder so I don't need a high duty cycle but I do want a reliable machine that I can get serviced locally. I see the Miller Dynasty 200 SD pretty much fits the bill.  I don't think I want all the other features that are available like pulse, upslope, downslope and variable frequency.  For one I don't have and it do OK with out it and I want a reliable machine so I figure simpler is better but I'm open to advice.  I'm also not really interested in the multi-process machines, one that will do stick and TIG is enough.  Any other models to consider with these requirements?
Reply:post budget please.  It will greatly help narrow down the choices, and thus the responses.  Why do you feel your current inverter tig is "unreliable"?  To get the "reliability" factor will require you to bust open the checkbook and spring for a $1500-3000 inverter tig.  Another thing is to check your LWS and literally ask them: "Which brands of tig welders can you service for me if I should have an issue within/outside the warranty period?".  A couple phone calls and you can answer your own question, especially since you did not fill out your Location in your profile for us to see where abouts you live. 1st on WeldingWeb to have a scrolling sig! HTP Invertig 400HTP Invertig 221HTP ProPulse 300HTP ProPulse 200 x2HTP ProPulse 220MTSHTP Inverarc 200TLP HTP Microcut 875SC
Reply:If you are excluding the Dynasty, then the Invertec V205 is probably out too. I think all of the AC/DC inverters from the big name brands all have just about the same features. If that is the case, you are either giving up AC or you need to look for a good used transformer TIG e.g., syncrowave 200 or 250, or precision TIG 225. Good basic TIG welders with good stick welding ability.Miller Multimatic 255
Reply:location and knowing what you are currently using helps along with budget.  I think Louis missed your comment about not having a lot of space so the old transformer machines are out...Tiger Sales:  AHP Distributor    www.tigersalesco.comAHP200x; AHP 160ST; MM350P,  Spoolmatic 30A; Everlast PowerTig 185; Thermal Dynamics 60i plasma.  For Sale:  Cobra Mig 250 w/ Push-pull gun.  Lincoln Wirematic 250
Reply:I'm not excluding the Dynasty 200 SD, it's actually the one that looks the best to me.  It's in the range I'm willing to spend but of course I'd like to spend as little as possible.  I'm in Minneapolis/Saint Paul MN area and I get my argon at Oxygen Service.
Reply:I'd go for the Dynasty hands down. Just beause it has all the extra features doesn't mean you have to use them. I'm surprised you wouldn't want pulse tho?-DoogieMiller 350PMiller Trailblazer 325 EFI w/ Excel PowerLincoln LN25 suitcase welderXMT 304/22a feederMiller Syncrowave 350LXMiller EconotigHobart Handler 140(2) Uni-Hydro 42-14Hypertherm 65 plasmaWEBB Gap bed lathe
Reply:Thermal Arc 186 & the HTP 221 come to mind.
Reply:The Dynasty 200 DX claims to be able to weld 1/4 inch aluminum.  I know my current rig can't quite do it on a fillet weld at 200 A at 60 Hz, it's close but not quite.  Is it the frequency control of the Dynasty that allow you concentrate the arc enough to be able to handle 1/4 inch aluminum?Anybody know anything about the ESAB Caddy Tig 2200i?Last edited by sand_man_red; 03-30-2015 at 07:31 AM.
Reply:I hear lots of good things about the HTP machines.12v battery, jumper cables, and a 6013.I only have a facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/pages/VPT/244788508917829
Reply:HTP Invertig or Everlast PowerTIG 255EXT sound like they fit the bill for what you're looking for. If you're a hobbyist I wouldn't spend twice what one of the aforementioned machines cost for the same capability with blue paint, JMO.Lincoln PowerMIG 350mpEverlast PowerTIG 210EXT Hypertherm PowerMax45You merely adopted the iron, I was born in it, molded by it.
Reply:Originally Posted by sand_man_redThe Dynasty 200 DX claims to be able to weld 1/4 inch aluminum.  I know my current rig can't quite do it on a fillet weld at 200 A at 60 Hz, it's close but not quite.  Is it the frequency control of the Dynasty that allow you concentrate the arc enough to be able to handle 1/4 inch aluminum?
Reply:Originally Posted by sand_man_redAnybody know anything about the ESAB Caddy Tig 2200i?
Reply:Originally Posted by Brand X220 amps makes .250 aluminum a snap. I like the machine very well, it has great low end crater control on AC output.. You will pay extra over the other machines for a ft control.. Like $470.00.. Worth it in how it works with it's CAN bus setup.. The other contactor with two pin contactor is pretty nice, in that it's easy to program a two step amp control into the machine. One of the only machines where you do a good  Job on  aluminum with a simple button control. Program a high start amp setting and a lower weld amp. Use in the 4 step and it goes into repeat mode too.. Dynasty 200 can do the same thing but takes a 3 wires to do it, or two buttons,,(More for a automation setup) Smooth arc all around on the Esab..Mine is the Sweden made model, and one of the first, so it does not have some of the programing of the newer ones. (Can add it too it though) I am not messing with it, because I have zero need for some of the extra start parameters. Just run it on a low setting and it's fine. Set to high, and it will ball the electrode on some starting situations (AC) The later software has a auto setting, and better 6010 stick welding program. Mine starts just fine with a lower start setting, so I am not going to mess with the software at all.. I have used some of the better machines, and this one is the top one for me, in that is does not have any real faults..(IMO)
Reply:Originally Posted by shovelonI think I would look at the Miller Syncrowave210 with dual voltage first.
Reply:Originally Posted by Brand XMight be a good option for some people, but not for me.. The Esab is perfect for me.. Had quite a few inverters to compare too also. Used a few good ones but. Never the 210 machine.
Reply:Originally Posted by shovelonNo put down at all. Would love to have a Swedish made tig. I just see a better value in the Miller.
Reply:Thanks for all the advice.  I got quotes for the ESAB 2200i TA34 and the Dynasty 200 DX.  There was a slight price advantage on the ESAB but with a 6 week delivery.  That made the decision easy, Dynasty.  I was going to make a deal on a new one and found out they had returned rental machines for sale.  I got one with 2 1/2 years left on warranty and saved enough over new to pop for the wireless foot pedal.  One of the technicians spent about 2 hours patiently stepping me through all the controls and demo a bit in most of the modes.