TIG rehash...

[Oldbroncogarage]

I have been searching the postings on TIG recommendations and there's a ton of info - but wanted to get a better picture on everyone's take on which way to go between these two welders: Diversion 180 vs. Syncrowave 210.

Seems the 210 has many of the ease of use features originally in the Diversion but is maybe a higher end unit for not a lot more.

My use is primarily automotive fab work, some Aluminum, mostly mild steel, maybe some SS exhaust stuff. I'm a novice to TIG, but pretty good with a MIG (Have a Miller 210 and Hobart 135 in the shop).

So----which would you recommend? Miller Diversion 180 or Syncrowave 210??

Thx!

 

[ncfh]

I haven't looked at the specs of the latest models, but the Diversion series is basic AC/DC TIG, while the Sync should have pulse, basic wave shaping, and arc force control.

All very nice and useful features, used properly can make a novice look like a rockstar. But not absolutely necessary and can be difficult to setup and use for newbies, thou the newer machines are pretty smart and really aid the user much better than the older machines with a panel full of knobs and switches. Now you get to dig through endless menus and submenus, but at least there's usually rudimentary descriptions of the functions and that lovely "return to factory defaults" option you don't get with knobs and switches.

I suppose it boils down to just how much welding do you plan to do? Considering making this more than a hobby, then go Sync. If this is just to be a hobby and you're denying yourself some other needed tool(s) just to get the Sync, go with the Diversion.

And don't forget bottle lease, gas, tungstens, a way to cut and sharpen those tungstens, helmet, making safe your welding area, etc, etc, etc.

 

[zkling]

Definitely the syncrowave.

 

[Oldbroncogarage]

Thanks guys. The new Sync seems to have the same "one button" set and go feature as the Diversion. It probably does have more bells and whistles too but it seems Miller is going with making it easier to use with what they call a Pro Setting or some such. Will probably go that way (Sync) as I do like the versatility and interchangeability of the torch. Though I do admit it's tempting to go uber simple and lower price, not by much really though.... Will post back once I decide and let y'all know how I like my choice! Yay, happy birthday to ME!

 

[rockinacummins]

I'm a big fan of the Synchrowave!

 

[Copper head]

Between the two,.......I would go with the Syncrowave 210

BUT,.......
If you're on a budget, you may want to consider a Thermal Arc 186.
It's on par with Miller's Dynasty 200,.......at less than 1/2 the price. The T/A has a lower duty cycle,.......BUT,.... for the amount of $$ I saved,.....I can deal with it.


The Thermal Arc machine is about $100 less than the 180 Diversion,....and $800 less than the Syncrowave 210.

I have a T/A 186 machine myself and I love it. I would've liked to have had a Miller Tig,.....to match my Miller 211 Mig-Welder,.....but I wasn't going to pay more,....for less machine.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I suppose it boils down to just how much welding do you plan to do?

I would also add, what kind of materials you are welding. In other words, do you need those additional features and do you know how to properly use them ?

 

[Nele]

Want to buy my maxstar? I'd get dynasty 200

 

[dr_clyde]

I have a Dynasty, and love it. But the syncrowave is a solid, dependable welder. I'd take a syncrowave any day over a diversion.

 

[Oldbroncogarage]

Great inputs, thanks. I'm shying away from the T/A due country of origin. I know Miller is sourcing parts from overseas too but it's at least still a US assembled machine. I'm in the semiconductor industry so have seen far too many US jobs slip away overseas to not feel like whatever I can do to keep it in the country the better. Ok, enough politics - I would love a Dynasty but don't think I'd really use all the features. The Sync seems to have more guts than the Diversion and is more versatile for a bit more $.

I have Miller's 210 MIG and Hobart's 135 - both fabulous machines....so I'm inclined as I said on the start of the post to make a call between Miller's Diversion and Syncrowave 210 at this point....leaning towards the 210 based on everyone's feedback.

 

[Oldbroncogarage]

Ack, been doing some more research and happened across the Lincoln Precision TIG 225 Ready Pak With Cart K2535-2 for about $100 less than the Miller Syncrowave 210....thoughts on the Lincoln? Not looking to start the Red v. Blue war, just trying to get the best TIG I can for around $2500 or less new...