Currently using an Antex 30w standard plug in the mains thing.

OK for what it is but given the amount of soldering I have been doing recently and am going to be doing going forward a proper station makes sense (lots of work involving radios, bits to plug in to radios etc).

Unlikely to do any SMD work but not completely out of the question.

Any recommendations – Budget up to £100 unless there is a very good reason why to spend more.

Cheers

Danny B

I would just go for a standard Weller like a PS3D from eBay. IME these last forever and have less to go wrong than the variable temp irons.

Also look at metcal – have to be ebay to be in budget

RS soldering station £67

Job done. (get your self a cheapo hot air station off ebay if you’re doing any amount of SMD work (again, available for around about £50)