I'm getting ready to purchase a new DP and would appreciate your input. I am considering 3 models at the moment all in the $700-$800 range. The models are the Delta 17-925, Delta 17-990X and the Delta 70-200. I believe the 17-925 and the 17-990X are identicle based on the spec sheets I've seen. Is this true. I contacted Tool King to ask them and got a lame and rude response from someone named Ron telling me to check they're website and it's spec sheets, end of conversation, click. (I've already done this extensively as well as the Delta Website, Amazon, etc.) I will probably still order from them but based on any warm and fuzzy feeling.

I'm following the axiom of buying the best I can afford. I realize the 17-925 and 17-990X are variable speed models and the 70-200 is not. I'm wondering if there is a significant difference in quality between these models. The 70-200 has a larger motor (1hp) vs 3/4 hp for the other 2 models, but has a slower top RPM 2250 vs 3200. Does one table work better than another, the chuck, etc.

I work predominantly in wood but have been known to fashion parts out of aluminum from time to time...on a friends old...very old machine.

I plan on doing a little bit of everything so flexibility is a plus.

Thanks for your help.