Ok, I'm going to learn how to DIY some stuff...

Ok, I'm going to learn how to DIY some stuff... Nov 24, 2023 13:26:23 GMT -6

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Post by ericn on Nov 24, 2023 13:26:23 GMT -6

Nov 30, 2021 12:17:03 GMT -6 svart said:

I think soldering cables is riskier than soldering PCBs. The thermoplastics they use as insulators tend to melt very quickly and shrink back quite a bit. I tend to only strip a tiny end of the conductor and let the heat shrink the plastic back a little.

But if you get good at soldering cables, you will have no problems with PCBs.

Just look up "solder practice kit" online and you'll find all kinds of low-cost projects that you won't feel bad about messing up before you get into your audio stuff.

I’m going to disagree with you on this one a bit but I think it’s because we come at this from different perspective’s; you master solder; me once above average but had to re-learn with missing fingers. The advantage of learning on cables is how quickly you get feedback on your technique. A balanced cable built from scratch is going to be ready for use after 6 joints so your more likely to Remember what it was you might have done differently on a particular joint.

Some other important points; got a VOM ? Your going to screw up and even a $20 analog meter from Harbor Freight is going to help you track down where you screwed up. A meter especially one that also measures capacitance is a god send at sorting parts. Even on kits with sorted parts double checking values makes life easier.

Part of learning to solder is learning to desolder, most don’t start with a Hakko desoldering gun or understand it’s value till they use wick or a manual vacuum bulb.
Even a cheap generic Knock off desoldering gun is soooo much easier than the manual methods.

Personally, I find using high power magnifying reading glasses better than fixed magnification because you have consistent magnification that moves with you.
A pair of decent articulated lamps just makes things easier as do a couple of alligator clips ( especially if your missing fingers).

I still believe the best first DIY first kit is the CAPI 500 series rack, it’s simple and repetitive as hell but honestly you will see your skill level increases as you progress.

Even though I have one in my go bag for quick fixes in my go bag don’t use a cordless iron as your primary iron, the balance sucks, the size sucks, they can take for ever to get to temp and replacement tips can be impossible to find. Honestly the Weller stick iron sees more use, but there are situations where a corded iron is a no go. Also plugging in an iron can generate a hum so at times the cordless keeps others sane.