@Rydell,
It does depend on what you see yourself using the saw for. If you’re thinking you’ll be cutting a lot of 8/4+material, I’d go with a 3HP, minimum. I had a Powermatic 64a (1.5HP/115v) before the new saw and it occasionally struggled with the thicker hardwoods.
Does this saw comes with any accessories, such as a mobile base? That’s another $300 right there for a new one. Even the less expensive mobile base for the PCS is $200. I went with the Industrial Mobile Base as I wanted the capability to easily move the saw in any direction with the 4-wheels, compared to the 3-wheel PCS base which isn’t nearly as mobile in a tight space like my basement. I had a 3-wheel base on the PM64a and it was a pain to use within my shop confines.
@AG,
I see your point. If it works for you, and you were able to get another highly useable tool for the same price as the PCS would’ve been, more power to you. I just felt I needed 3HP minimum as I love working with hardwood, and throw a decent amount of thicker stock at my table saw, and this trend will likely continue, if not increase for some of the projects I have on my never ending list.
-- Jonathan, Denver, CO "Constructive criticism is welcome and valued as it gives me new perspectives and helps me to advance as a woodworker."
