I have a small ridgid 13" planer and recently made that flip cart for and mounted the ridgid oscillating sander on the other side. The projects I make I keep under 12.5" so I can pass through my planer......BUT a larger 16" planer would mean bigger cutting boards and panels.

Would a 3 phase Powermatic 160 be a good buy say for under $500? I honestly have no clue where I'd put it and power it as I only have 220 and this thing is 3 phase BUT from my research and videos it sounds like a beast and I of course I want it

I also would be able to do end grain boards through it with runners attached or not as this kind of planer has built in kickback and I imagine enough power and weight not to flex compared to the ridgid.

I just registered for OWWM.com and plan to ask there. Wanted to check with you guys first. I really need a jointer but came across this planer and started to drool.

Lastly, a machine like this, are carbide tipped knives beneficial compared to the steel knives?