Soldering

When building you're own effects you will be soldering a lot so investing a bit more money in a good soldering iron and solder is definitely worth it.

I'm currently using a Miniware TS100 for soldering components. It's really affordable, fully programmable and works really well. You can even flash it with custom firmware. So far I'm really enthusiastic about this little device, heats up quickly and works smoothly. I can recommend getting it together with an extra BC2 tip. Bought mine on Banggood

For cables and connectors I'm currently using a Velleman VTSS5. Cheap unit but does the trick. Also very easy to get parts for.

I've tried some solder gauges but ended up with 0.7mm². I've found 0.5mm² to be too thin and 1mm² too thick with the TS100. 1mm² works well with the Velleman though. I have no experience with lead-free solder, I've only worked with 60/40 Sn-Pb solder. The 0.7mm² I'm using at the moment is Stannol HS10.