Welder For A Garage?

by Mike
(USA)

What is a good welder for a garage? I am looking at purchasing a welder to start off in my garage with. What is the minimum High Frequency start, remote amperage control, AC/DC, TIG machine I can get away with. My friend, who is a professional welder, prefers the Miller Syncrowave 350 LX, but the price is causing severe pucker marks in my office chair, I might have to purchase a new office chair as well;-) To not offend him, I suppose I need to purchase a Miller, It would please him and keep our friendship going good. But, could I get a way with the Syncrowave 180, 200, or 250?

Just out of personal curiosity, what info do you have regards to a HTP Invertig 201, are they acceptable alternatives?

Thanks,
Mike