I just bought a Hakko FX-951, after having used a Radio Shack digital soldering station for the last couple of years. What a difference. I thought I just SUCKED when I was using the Radio Shack model, even after buying brand new tips. The Hakko is in a different class all together. I feel that with the Hakko, I can almost do it with my eyes closed, and get a good solder joint.