As it happens, I didn't take my own advice, with regards to the crocodile clips on diodes. I fixed 1N4148 diodes striagt to the board, with no extra lead or anything. Worked ok though. I did leave a gap for the transistors though, seeing as its only ealing with audio frequency this time, it should cause no problems.
I use an Antex 15W iron from Maplin. Used to use a big 30W thing from a DIY shop, for £3.50, :lol: , the difference is astounding. Anyone using any cheap iron for PCB, its well woth your while getting a decent one. I can make most joints almost instantly with it. Only sometimes will I have to give it another attempt, usually if the solder doesn't flow to both sides of the lead.