Hypertherm 380 vs. Hypetherm 30??

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I was set to buy a 380 a while ago and ended up with a differant tool  .  I went to get a 380 today and the replacement model, the 30 is out now.  Its tiny like the 375 extreme miller.  Has a smaller narrower torch and 3 more amps then the 380.  The 30 has a preset regulator for air, it is not adjustable.   Dealer said it will do expanded metal without losing an arc and the 380 wont.  Prices are almost the same 380 $1085 and the 30 is $1025 and the specs are very close as well.  I take very good care of my tools and just want something that will last and last.  New machines kinda scare me sometimes because there is usually quirks in the beginning.  I dont need a tiny machine, i have room.  I would think the tiny machines are more geared to field work and thats not what I'm really after.  But if its a better machine....My questions are.....which one will stand the test of time better?  Do the smaller inverter machines have some downsides or is that just the route the machines are taking(smaller is better)?  Does running at such high frequencies effect the longevity of a machine? I told my dealer i would get back to him tomorrow or saturday.
Reply:If you want a machine will do most jobs that you will enccounter, get aHypertherm 1000. I have had one for two years, had no problems, and it is very easy on consumables. James STUBBLEFIELD
Reply:I wish i could afford the 1000 but i cannot justify spending that kind of money right now, plus i dont cut much thick stuff.  I might some day but i dont now, plus i really like the dual voltage of the smaller machines too.  A lot of people that i know/work for, dont have 220 thats really easy to get to.  I could probably scrape up enough for the 600 i think but im not sure i want to spend that kinda money.  Most of the stuff i want it for is thin shapes and body work anyway.
Reply:Since you xport to others work places get the inverter (unless you love lugging around heavy stuff.DennisThermal Arc 185-TSWMillermatic Challenger 172VictorO/AAtlas Craftsman 12 by 24 LatheEsab PCM-875Wholesalem Tool Mill-Drill
Reply:i was in the same boat  as  you  got the promax  30  works  great!!!
Reply:Tough question.  I bought the 380 a couple of years ago and haven't had any problems with it.  Although, the new 30 sounds pretty good with lots of improvements.  The question of buying a new machine with no real track record is a valid concern, highly noticable with the automotive industry.  For me, I usually like to wait for a year or so to see how it pans out.  Also, you may be able to get "last years" model at a better price as a close out item if you look around.  I have cut expanded metal and I didn't notice any real problem with it.  I suppose if your are going to do a lot of it, it might be a serious consideration.Hmmmm.....to buy or not to buy?  Hobart 140 Handler w/ gasHyperTherm Powermax 380 Plasmaoxy/acetylene
Reply:I have a Hypertherm 380 and I love it.I've never had any problem cutting perforated or expanded metal with mine.I agree with Rick. I'd wait a little bit and see if there are any issues with the machine. Although I doubt there will be since every Hypertherm product I've ever used has been great, you never know.... and you might be able to save a buck on the older model.- Paulhttp://all-a-cart.comWelding Cart Kits and accessories
Reply:I went with the 380, im all about the tried and true i guess.  I ended up talking em down to $1050 which is more then online but acceptable.  I went to another praxair today seeing as how the other gave me some wrong information and wouldnt negotiate with me.  There are no more locally so it will be in on tuesday.  On another note he said hypertherm is releasing a plug adaptor for the dual voltage machines.  It will be in the new hypertherm 30 deluxe kit.  They are a little behind miller on the nice dual votage cords(dvi and 375's).  Thanks for the responses guys.
Reply:Nice job. Congrats!- Paulhttp://all-a-cart.comWelding Cart Kits and accessories
Reply:I have the hypertherm powermax 30 and love it and love the new torch!Millermatic 211 with 150 spool gunDynasty 350 Hypertherm powermax 30XP
Reply:I have the 380 and used it almost anything with no problems. Cut lots of expanded metal with  it and never had any problems. Easy to make up a short adapter cord for the dual voltages.
Reply:I have the hypertherm powermax 30 . I went to my local welding supply that i have been doing business with for over 30 years. They told me that they would sell me any brand that i wanted but recomended Hypertherm becuase they only make plasma and are the best in the business. When i got there to pick it up i expected to have to need help to load it in my truck. I was really surprised to see how small it was.. It works great for my needs and like was earlier mentioned i have already made an extension cord for it .. I am truely impressed wsith how it works . My welding supply keeps the consumables in stock for me so i don't have to wait for the UPS guy to drop the suff on my door step.. I also know that if i have any trouble with it my welding supply will warantee it for me.. My 3 cents.... Terry