Porter Cable 7538

I’m looking to replace my current table-mounted plunge router (Chicago Tools 3.5HP 19A) with another beastly router of far superior quality. I’m considering the Porter Cable 7538 because I already own a router speed control from MLCS.

The Chicago router immediatedly jolts up to maximum RPM when turned on, so I use the speed control to soft start it and adjust to the desired speed (the real reason for my wishing to replace it is because when I try to use panel raiser bits or a bit extension shaft, the whole router makes a frighteningly loud vibrating noise which I think means a crooked shaft or bad bearings). The PC router claims to have soft starting built in, but I still want to use my variable speed control WITHOUT HAVING TO REACH INSIDE MY ROUTER TABLE to adjust speed on the router motor like Norm Abram’s 7539 5-speed router.

Is it worth saving approximately $40 to buy the single speed soft-start router and use my own variable speed control with it? Are the two even compatible (meaning: will the soft-start router even work with the v-s control?)

Any input or personal experience is appreciated.

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