I use a nex-gen and find it exceptional. The sensitivity works well for low light like TIG. The delay alows me to use air arc and not see spots from the glow that remains on the tip of the rod.It works well out in the sun. I burn and grind with it.

The headgear is the only problem. It is not very tough. If you get one run a tap clear thruugh the tightner nut on each side so it won't bottom out and twist off.

I also use the NexGen, and would recommend it as well. I have not had any problems with it other than finding the inner protective plate with the slots cut for the adjustment buttons (do not use a normal plate, it will hold down the on button and cause the batteries to run down quick-learned that one the same way that you learn to put something over your ear-canal...the hard way). But that is easy enough to avoid, just draw the pattern on a normal plate's paper cover and use the high speed fine tooth vertical bandsaw (I realize this is not the safest way, nor the best practice, but no one around here keeps them in stock, and I'm not going to ruin another electronic lens because the inside plate has more spatter than a stovetop after frying bacon). I haven't had as much trouble with the headgear, but I have had to replace it before, and at some inconvenient times. The NexGen has four sensors, one at each corner, and all the bells and whistles, some which I hardly ever use.

I have used the speedglasses before as well, and would say that they work just as well in functionality. However, what some people credit to it, I gotta say that I don't really like-- The lightness of the hood makes it hard to get used to its break over when you don't have an extra hand to flip it down, and it's pliability makes it seem a little like a soggy pancake on my head (I've been a Jackson guy since I was 14, so I'm probably a little biased too). I kinda like to feel the weight and impact, call it a security blanket.

My suggestion, you're talking about a pretty pricey piece of equipment, so ask the dealers if you can try them on. They probably won't let you take it for a test drive, but at least you can get the feel.

gls

There are alot of good quality auto darkening hoods available, hobart miller are light but i have had bad experiance with longevity. however they have replaced the thing for me 4 times for free under warranty. i have hear good things about speedglass but i now use the lincoln ultrashade and i am extremely happy, there are no buttons to forget about its fully automatic and solar powered so you dont have to worry about batteries. also the headgear is well desighned and comfortable. unfortunatly they are a bit expensive. i think mine was right around 300

I have owned and used speedglass and Jacksons NexGen and have been somewhat dissapointed with both, expecially for the price. Had problems with the speedglass not shielding my ears while mig welding and turning to the light stage while tig welding. The NexGen lens is excellent but the headgear on the hood is junk. I like the Lincoln (uvex)Trackside the best, I have used one for 1 1/2 years now with no problems or complaints.

i went out and spent some cash on this baby....The Satellite...it was money well spent, the headstrap is ultra comfy, nice adjustment....the hood has a nice range, sensitivity, and delay setup...Uvex makes the lenses, so its quality through and through....don't mean to sound like a commercial

http://www.optrel.com/index2.htm

i ordered it through this ebay store...

http://stores.ebay.com/Welding-Supplies-from-IOC_W0QQssPageNameZviQ3asibQ3astoreviewQQtZkm