Replies

1. 
   JohnWW | Jun 22, 2007 12:19am | #1

   I don't think their is anyone on the experts side who is especially knowledgeable about combination machines, so I'll give you three places to search for information:

   1.  Post your question on our regular Knots forum, there are at least a few regulars there who have experience with combo machines.

   2.  Go to this site: http://www.minimax-usa.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=45&Itemid=42

   This is the Mini Max USA site and they have free downloadable videos about how to use their machines.

   3.  There is a Mini Max users group on Yahoo.  Joining that group will put you in touch with experienced users.  There is also a Felder users group that probably would have a lot of information on using a combo machine.

   Hope this helps,

   John White

1. 
   dowdie | Jun 29, 2007 12:46pm | #2

   Thanks alot John

   Iwill take all that on board and hopefully it will work out for me , basicaly i just want to improve my abillity at woodworking  esspecially cabinate and furniture makeing  so if there is any thing that you might think would help me dont hesitate to let me know.

   Yours sincerely

                          Dowdie

1. 
   royjcouvillion | Jul 09, 2007 08:34am | #3

   I looked very closely at the Mini-Max combo machines.  I also looked at Felder, not only in the catalogs, but met with a local user. (Actually, he was a Felder owner.  I didn't see anything he made)

   I bought the MM16 bandsaw and am very glad I bought that over the Laguna or others.  But as far as the combo machine, I chose individual machines instead.

   I bought a Powermatic 2000, PM 8" jointer, PM hollow chisel mortiser with tilting bed, PM 15" planer with Byrd Shelix head, a Woodmaster 26" drum sander and a couple of new routers AND the MM16 for less than the cost of the MM300.

   I have absolutely NO regrets.  In fact, I feel that if I had bought the MM, I would have regrets.

   My shop is 20x24 and all my wood storage is upstairs.  All of my tools and cabinets are on wheels.  Dust collection is via Oneida 2hp with the unit mounted outdoors and drops piped at each machine. 

   This setup works well for my own use.  It would even work well for a one-man production operation.

   I do not use much sheet goods.  Most of what I do is from rough-cut hardwoods.

   That being said, if one does want a combo machine, I cannot see any advantage to justify the increased cost in buying the Felder machine over the MM.

   I hope that helps.

   You can call me if you wish.  I struggled and researched this for a year before I made my purchases.

   Roy J. Couvillion

   337-739-1858