"Andy H" wrote:

I am in a position to invest in the shop a bit and I can justify
about
$5-$600. Im thinking of getting a 2hp Dust collector (Shop Fox), a
Triton 2-1/4 HP Router, and a forrest WWII blade.
snip

Don't let that money burn a hole in your pocket.

Buy as the need arises.

1) Invest in a good set of 10" saw blades(24T rip, 50T combo, & 80T
finish)

2) Build jigs.
Buy a couple of sheets of 9 ply(1/2") & 13 ply(3/4"), then build some
sleds, if you don't have them.

3) An 8" Dado set. It gets more use than you imagine.

4) A bench top planer. (there are work arounds for a jointer, but not
a planer).

5) A good ROS, I have a Bosch 3727 and wouldn't leave home without it.

6) A Fein Multimaster. The damn thing is VERY addictive.

7) A 3 HP router suitable for permanent table mounting.

8) Clamps, clamps, clamps.

Of all the things above, having material on hand to build a quick jig
will save your rear end more times than everything else above, IMHO.

Have fun.

Lew