Ok, so I'm selling my synchrowave tonight and will be replacing it with a physically smaller machine. I'm torn between the HTP intertig 201 for $2400 or one of those chinese manufactured Ramsond 520PY machines for $1300. I know HTP is a great brand and have good customer support. What I'm trying to see is if anybody knows anything about the Ramsond or ebay machines as far as longevity, reliability, and torch and parts compatibility with brands found in the USA. Anybody have had one of these for for than a year or two with no problems? The price factor is making me lean towards the Ebay machine but the unknown reliability factor is making me lean back to the HTP. I was thinking about the TA185 as well but it's almost the price of the HTP already.

http://www.ramsond.com/proddetail.ph...PER250PY&cat=9

 

I used an ebay machine for 2 years. Everything about it kinda sucks. Its all great at first, but cheap stuff starts breaking after a year or so. Had to replace the switch twice, the solenoid once, an electronics board randomly failed on initial power on, and the HF board used a crappy gapping system.

 

I have the the same kind of welder the OP posted. Except mine is a Jasic name brand, Ive had it for a year and never had a problem I use it almost every day.

 

have you thought of getting this?



Miller TIG Welder - Diversion 165 AC/DC
FREE protective cover & welding sleeves or $50 cash back with purchase

Mfg Industrial Price: $1,617.00
Cyberweld Price: $1,275.00

i use to have a ebay plasma and like DESTROYER said everything kinda sucks. being use to name brand machines makes it hard to settle for the chinese units because the second you open the box and start taking stuff out you begin to pick it apart.. comparing it to what you knew you should have bought.

you should also think of resale value.

 

Definitely go with Miller

 

I'm have thought about the diversion, yes but as of right now, it's between the other 3 machines.

 

my POS plasma was a Longevity, definitely go with the HTP. i wouldn't be surprised to find out that all those Smiley, Longevity, Ramsond machines are being made in the same factory.

 

wow i have never seen a plasma and tig in one package.that would be cool if the quality was good.