I am totally new to amp modding and pedal building. I have two amps that I want to mod and some veroboard layout of pedals I want to build.
I just need the gear to get started. I need suggestions for a multimeter and a soldering station. I do want the most expensive stuff out there - just good bang for the buck gear that will last.
Welcome Coolmic,
start with simple stuff;
You should be able to get a soldering iron that suits your needs for under $20 au.
Mine cost $18,, first one lasted 5years second is still going at 3 years.
Repaired many amps/pedals/guitars and built many projects including a couple of Vavle Amps.
Find it here; https://www.jaycar.com.au/20-130w-turbo-soldering-iron/p/TS1554
Multimeters; well take your pic if you are only working on low voltage pedals then you don't need to spend too much.
If you intend to work on mains stuff then you need a better meter.
Again this is what is around in Australia you place might be different;
https://www.jaycar.com.au/tools-test-equipment/multimeters/digital-multimeters/c/7AA?sort=popularity-desc&q
Oh and stay away from lead free solder,, ask for 60/40 solder.
Hope it helps,, Phil.
I suggest getting a Weller WLC100 station. They are fantastic, reliable, inexpensive units and are used commercially in labs all around. Typically they sell for $40 USD or so. Regarding multimeter, I suggest a digital multimeter (referred to as a DMM). I don't care for the "auto sensing" type, I like to adjust myself. Brand isn't super important. The one I use is a Craftsman because Sears had one on hand years ago and it fit the bill. Higher end brands like Klein and Fluke are great if you can afford it, but not necessary. Here is the cheap Craftsman I used for almost everything: https://www.amazon.com/Craftsman-34-82141-Digital-Multimeter-Functions/dp/B000X5TSUA
$20 and it gets the job done very well.
Past that the next thing I recommend is a "third hand" type of gizmo. I use mine regularly and it's a real help. You can get them all over the internet from very basic to very fancy. I use this $5 one: http://smallbear-electronics.mybigcommerce.com/third-hand/
A silicone soldering matte is something I have been considering as it would keep my station clean. I have one at work that I use mostly for keeping screws in place while tearing down laptops and such. For $14, it's well worth it: https://www.amazon.com/SEASWAL-Soldering-Resistant-Electronics-Workbench/dp/B075F3C6J3
EDIT:
I forgot to add, make sure to get quality lead solder (I like Kester 60/40 in 0.031") and also some desoldering braid (sometimes called desoldering wick). Thicker solder is harder to work with and mostly unnecessary for the small joints you will be working on. I use leaded because it flows so well and withstands the test of time. I do have lead free silver solder, and it works, but requires more heat and doesn't flow as cleanly.
Good luck!
Have a look at the Aneng 8002 meter. You won't find similar features and specs for that price anywhere else.
https://makeradvisor.com/aneng-an8002-an8008-multimeter-review/
That for the help everyone - I appreciate it. I will get some shopping done this weekend. Sayle Electronics should have everything I need.