getting started setup

[StratRat]

Hi everyone.   I've decided to finally build some pedals now that I (sort of) have the time.  My experience is limited.  I've tinkered with modding guitars a bit, recently built a speaker cabinet, and a couple years ago I built a single-knob fuzz that didn't turn out very well 

I think the crux of my projects has been lack of proper workspace and tools.   I'm going to build a dedicated bench this time around, and spend some time upgrading my current tools, and acquiring those that I lack before starting my first build.   So this is just a general request for advice on what to have on hand to make life a bit easier.  I know for one I need a new soldering iron... the one I have is crap.   Any other suggestions for Can't-live-without equipment is appreciated.

[sonnyboy27]

I actually just finished up a blog post about this very thing.

https://prentisseffects.blogspot.com/2015/01/getting-started-basic-equipment.html

I don't know why it says that it was posted in January though...Still gotta figure that part out.

[StratRat]

I actually just finished up a blog post about this very thing.

https://prentisseffects.blogspot.com/2015/01/getting-started-basic-equipment.html

I don't know why it says that it was posted in January though...Still gotta figure that part out.

This is great!  Thanks!

[sonnyboy27]

Much appreciated! I'm gonna be making some build reports soon too. But let me know if there's anything you'd be interested in seeing.

[selfdestroyer]

Coda Effects has son great info
http://www.coda-effects.com/p/tips.html

Aion has some great info on his website
https://aionelectronics.com/resources/where-to-buy-what/?v=868f8823ca02

[Coda-effects]

Hi!
Thanks Cody for the link.
I have a blog post about getting started with building guitar effects, and some tools that you might need: http://www.coda-effects.com/2015/10/what-tools-do-you-need-to-make-diy.html

I have also recently made a list of suppliers that can be useful if you wonder where to buy parts for guitar effects:
http://www.coda-effects.com/2016/11/top-electronics-suppliers-for-guitar.html

I recently ordered an affordable soldering station, the Hakko FX888D, I will write a small review about it, it seems like a great piece of gear if you want to invest a bit in a good soldering setup.

[flanagan0718]

I believe that everyone should follow Coda's blog. Between his blog, this forum ( and the people on it), and Cody's (selfdestroyer) blog I wouldn't be building stuff today. I would have thrown in the Rowell a long time ago. There is a wealth of information between them.


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[stringsthings]

I know for one I need a new soldering iron...

Don't be afraid to pull the trigger on a nice soldering iron.  This tool is probably the most important tool in the bunch.
A thin tip is really handy for PCBs. 
Good solder is also important.  Right now, I'm using 63/37 with .032" diameter.  ( 63% tin, 37% lead )

One overlooked tool for starting out is a DMM.  You can get by with an inexpensive one.  Essential for checking continuity, good solder joints, as well
as part values and voltages.  I can't imagine trouble-shooting without one.
http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/AIM/13426/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMuQDxh7mFZIaQuq%2fiyGofgJJjeEmqWTlf0%3d

One more thing:  A nice worklight.  I use one of those inexpensive gooseneck desk lamps with a bright CFL bulb so it doesn't heat up in the summertime.

[Leevibe]

I think a magnifier lamp is worth the investment. Good lighting is critical for accurate work and the magnification is nice for reading cap codes and checking the quality of your solder joints. For me it also functions as eye protection, which I think is pretty important. If you accidentally touch the tip of your iron, you're going to jerk and potentially splash molten solder in your eyes.

I bought mine at Harbor Freight for about $40. It's the cheapest place I've found them for the style with the ring shaped fluorescent tube. I've been using it for probably around 5 years now.