welding question, noob looking for a MIG Welder Options

[chuckc]

Any thoughts on a good beginner setup on a budget? I was thinking about this Hobart 500550 Auto Arc 130 Wire Feed MIG Welding Kit.

http://www.amazon.com/Hobart-500550-Auto-Wire-Welding/dp/B002VECKTM/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

any suggestions would be appreciated.
thanks in advance.
peace,
Chuck

[FourBlades]

I have done all my work with a Hobart 140. It is hard enough to learn to weld thin metal even with a decent machine like that. I have never felt like I needed to upgrade my welder.

I second the good auto darkening helmet. I started with a $50 one from northern tool. A year later I got a $400 one after reading a thread McMark posted about good welding helmets. It is like night and day difference (see what I did there?). With the $50 one you can barely see what you are welding. With the $400 one you can see everything clearly. Both helmets have darkness controls but the good helmet is just so much more clear. Seeing what you are doing is the key to welding thin stuff, seeing if you are blowing holes, and just generally getting the weld where you want it.

If you are broke, start with the $50 helmet but think about getting a good one later, you will be amazed how much easier it makes it.

John