Which Type Should I start With?

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I know this is a much over asked question, but I just can't seem to find a suitable answer. I just want to learn basic welding...I'm really don't care at this point about making clean/good looking welds. I just want to be able to attach two pieces of steel together. I don't  want to be worried about having super clean metal. I want to be able to do basic exhaust repairs for example, where there's likely to be dirt and grease in the welding area.I am going to college for engineering/physics, and am toying with he idea of making my own jet engine for a learning experience...however, in order to do this, I'm going to have to be able to weld a little. Even if I never follow through with this particular project, I figured it wouldn't be bad to have the skill for auto repair or possibly art work. Using gas kind of scares me, and I'd love to just have an electric box to plug in. However, I understand that all electric welders require a special outlet to plug into. This would be an issue, as while I have electric in the garage the fuse box is filled up in the house and I do not plan on updating this for another year or two. Also, I would like to stick to a 200-400$ budget at the most. So, what should I do? If the answer is O/A, then I'm ok with getting over my fears ( I know, safety first!), but please tell me exactly what I would need to get...and can I get everything i need from a home depot or am I going to have to go to a specialty store?Thank you very much for any and all help!
Reply:I hate to be the one to pop your bubble but you ain't gonna build a jet engine with a 200-400 dollar welder.
Reply:Originally Posted by zoiberg137I just want to be able to attach two pieces of steel together. I don't  want to be worried about having super clean metal. I want to be able to do basic exhaust repairs for example, where there's likely to be dirt and grease in the welding area.
Reply:hi, unfortunately your budget is low. Where are you located ?? Check craigs list if available in your area. i would look for a used MILLER 180 SD or 200 syncro machine. these are tig and stick. The 180 is a older model which I have and purchased for 800.00 used with pedal, torch, and cable. It's a basic machine where you turn on, push pedal, and weld. The benefit of the tig stick is you can buy stick rods almost anywhere and weld now without any gas. Tig and mig needs gas unless you use flux wire with it.       Plus, i would rather fly in a jet  that was welded with a 1000.00 welder instead of a 200.00   Research your purchase so you only buy once. Unfortunately, after that first machine more will follow.
Reply:i will keep that in mind for the next experimental airplane i build for one of my buddies (have already built 3) or the next pipeline i burn some joints on....i am going to look across the pipe and say to my brother-in-law...."I'm going to have to be able to weld a little." and also not all welders require a special outlet....there are 110 machines and auto-line ones that sense what power is plugged in and adjusts internally from 110-220....