I don't think magnification is any problem. Doing test samples, I can get plenty close to see what I'm doing. The "shiny spot" is quite clear. I guess the idea is to keep that weld pool very small.
I hadn't found my thoriated electrodes when I was last trying the aluminum, and was having a HELL of a problem with pure Tungsten electrodes. I found those Thoriated electrodes, and they made a huge difference when welding steel. So, I will have to try a few pieces of aluminum and see how it works. I just got a refill on the Argon bottle.
Jon