you can save alot of cash if you forgo the need to weld aluminium
a DC welder only, is less than half the price of an AC/DC welder
I have been using THIS welder for 5 years now
it is all plastic, but still pretty tough (not as tough as a steel case)
It comes with gas regulator and a small box of tungstens, ceramic shrouds etc
mine is used mon to fri at least 4 hours a day
some days it gets used for 9.5 hours
the only "extras" you would need are gas, welding wire, helmet and gloves
don't try to save money on a welding helmet though
I have had this helmet for over 8 years now, just replaced the head harness for the second time
still works like a dream