First and foremost, yes there is without question a lot of archive posts on this topic but my experience with the search functions on this Prospero forum software leads me to the conclusion that it sucks. A classic example of search returning everything there is except what you need, and it would be a heck of a lot more usable if prospero simply threaded the search results. So basically what I am saying is that despite knowing I could probably find this information using search, it is less time consuming to simply post a new topic and ask for your indulgence.

I am considering a major remake of my shop in an effort to gain some space and upgrade my machines. I want a shaper but don’t have the space and a horizontal mortiser would be a treat but again, no space. I’ve already received voice commitments to buy my Unisaw, Powermatic planer, and jointer, and am thinking about replacing all of this with a combination machine.

I already have a Minimax bandsaw (20″) and based on my excellent experience with that company, I am inclined to purchase their CU300 Smart machine. It appears to be well designed and well built, no surprise there with minimax, but also pretty capable with minimal changeover time.

– can someone tell me the footprint this machine takes?
– also, I kind get the different sliding table options but an explanation would be helpful, and does the outrigger get counted as part of the machine footprint?
– does the scoring saw drive off it’s own motor?

The Knapp is, as I understand it, now sold as the Laguna Signature Series. The TK410 looks to me like the rolls royce of combination machines. While it has a price tag 2x that of the CU300, it also comes with a 16″ planer/jointer and a bevy of really nice options. However, this machine looks quite a bit larger than the CU300, correct? Also, the planer/jointer unbolts from the base machine and can be operated standard, correct? In that configuration, how does the electrical and switching work out? Lastly, I really like their router option but the high price tag of this machine makes it an unlikely choice.

How do the Robland stack up? I confess to not knowing much about this line of machinery so any light you can shed is appreciated.

Are there other machines I should consider? I want to consider machines that have U.S. support, can take a dado set, and are generally in the range of the CU300 in terms of features and operations.