Hi Vader!
I noticed that you're relatively new to this forum so if you have'nt been welcomed before well then - WELCOME!!!
I would suggest to conduct some more research (practical, features specific, and warranty service limitations) before you make the decision to "broadcast" your opinion on which brand or manufacturer of welding equipment is considered superior when compared to other "reputable" brands/manufacturers...
Here's a tip... look in your local or regional B to B or yellow pages and look for welding equipment repair shops. Call them up and ask around!!! Ask them which equipment/power sources they consider the most reliable!
Remember that they service most brands and models so they're not going to be afraid to suggest a particular brand that gives them the least headaches to service and gives the best performance for your money!!!
Anywho, whichever brand you decide to purchase - I wish you the best of luck!!! I personally prefer Miller's inverters if you must know but, the Lincoln inverters are getting better also...
As far as Thermal Arc is concerned which used to be Thermal Dynamics, they are well known for their plasma cutting equipment before they got swallowed up into the conglomerate that is known today as Thermadyne... I'm not saying that all of their products are inferior when compared to the previous 2 brands I mentioned... I just heard alot more mixed reviews regarding the Thermal Arc inverters.
Whatever brand you decide on, stick with the American brands even though most of these so-called american brands are really being manufactured in one form or another somewhere else!!!
Respectfully,
SSBN727 Run Silent... Run Deep!!!