I'm planning to buy a large planer. My ideal would be 20" so I can plane glued up panels and frames. Powermatic has a 20" with a Byrd/Helical head for around $4k. But the European combo machines (Minimax, Hammer) are tempting as well. Especially the MM with the Tersa head. The budget will not permit a new European combo larger than 16". I've read many posts about the advantages and disadvantages of jointer/planer combinations. My instinct is that combination jointer/planers are a compromise. I'm at a loss about what to get. I have an 8" Powermatic jointer late 80s vintage, but never bonded with it, and it is not unusual that I buy wood wider than 8", so I will be selling that. Any and all advice and suggestions would be appreciated. Also, sources for used (lightly) machines would be welcome.
This is a home shop, not professional, but I make furniture and am reasonably serious about it, have been at it for about 25 years. The planer will complement a Powermatic 66 5hp table saw and Minimax MM20 bandsaw.
Thanks for any suggestions.
Regards,
Len