I'm getting ready to glue up the top on a new dining table. I had thought about taking it to a cabinet shop with a wide belt sander, but I'd rather do the work myself if I can find a decent jointer (already posted a WTB in the classifieds). I don't have much experience with hand planes and only have a couple of serviceable, no-name jacks for bigger work. The ones I use most are my Kobalt mini block and rosewood bullnose and shoulder planes.
From what I've see and read I think a #7 jointer is what I'm looking for. My 6" jointer is fine for most tasks, but I think I might get better results gluing up a top if I can hand-joint the boards. Plus, a jointer plane would allow me to take the tool to the wood when the wood is too big to take to the tool.
I guess my question is - if I can't find a good used one, what are my options for buying new? I see some from Wood River, Lie-Nielsen, Stanley, Record and so on, and the prices vary wildly. I think LN is probably the creme of the crop here, but can I get similar quality/function/durability with a less-expensive brand? I'm not a vintage tool guy and probably would prefer buying new, but I would take fit and finish over 'pretty' any day. I'm not terribly concerned with price, but I might have a hard time pleading my case if it is more than $300.
Thoughts or suggestions?