Which brand of Plasma Cutter would you recommend?

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I'm looking to buy a plasma cutter in the next couple of weeks.  At most I see myself cutting 1/2" plate.  However most of the time it would be used to cut .050-0.100 aluminum sheeting.I've been looking at the following models.  The first two are sort of the 'entry level' units that do both 110V and 220V.  The last two units are 220V only and have slightly higher cutting capacities.My choices would be:1. Hypertherm Powermax 380 - $1025 shipped2. Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 38 - $1063 Shipped3. Hypertherm Powermax 600 - $1442 shipped4. Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 51 - $1399 shippedThe price differences between the machines in the same class are very minor.  The price difference between the difference classes is about $350-400.  From doing my research, most agree that 110V is nice on occasion, but most would wire the machine for 220V operation at all times as the cuts are a lot better with less amps being drawn.  I won't buy a Miller or Hobart because I know they don't make their own plasma machines and you pay an extra $200 for the same machine painted blue.Any thoughts or recommendations would be appreciated.  I'll be ordering a Thermal Arc 185TSW Tig welder after I get the plasma because of this forum.
Reply:The hypertherm and the Thermal dynamics are both good machines. personally i would go with the hypertherm.  another thing when buying a plasma cutter I would always buy a little larger than you think you need the extrac cutting capacity will come in handy at one time or another.  good luck  ~Jackson
Reply:I have the Thermal Dynamics Pak 38 and it will only cut up to .125 aluminum. Very good machine. When I go larger it will be with the T D.Yes I can tack it for you.    I know that won't hold but that is what you asked me to do.  Millermatic 350P XR Aluma-Pro push/pullMillermatic 185/spool gunMiller Dialarc 250 HF Water cooledThermal Dynamics Plasma
Reply:Well I didn't get very many replies, so after much research I made my choice today and ordered.  I ended up with the Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 51.  I also ordered the circle/straight guide kit, extra tips, stand off, cover and wheel kit as well.  I figured since I'm going with a Thermal Arc 185TSW, I might as well go with a Thermal Dynamics plasma.  I don't think I'll be dissapointed.  I almost went with a Hypertherm 1000 - but if I need that much power I'll upgrade later on since the resale on plasma cutters is pretty good.  Last edited by unixadm; 08-22-2005 at 10:31 PM.