Victor Robinson
02-18-2014, 2:08 PM
I had long been considering an upgrade to my DW735, not because it wasn't performing well, but because it was unbearably loud for my circumstances and I wanted something more robust for the long haul. I long thought about investing in a Byrd head for the DW735, but couldn't bring myself to do it, mostly because even if the cutting noise was reduced, the fan would still be just as loud (easily my loudest tool).
So I finally bit the bullet and got a G0453P. I'm not going to post a lengthy initial impression as I'm still in the process of tweaking the machine and I'm not sure my impressions will be that different than the myriads out there. I also still need to install the Byrd head, which I ordered separately.
Noise-wise, this thing is already so much quieter than the DW. Under no load, the noise level is 85dbA (at 3ft), and while planing with the straight knives, that goes to 93dbA. More of a low-pitched rumble than a screaming shopvac type of sound. In contrast, my DW was 95dbA under no load and 105dbA while planing. These are measured with an iPhone SPL meter, so relative rather than absolute values are relevant.
I imagine the Byrd head will knock another 10dbA off the cutting noise, bringing the operation of this machine noise-wise in line with other tools in my shop. I'm pleased.
As far as operation, the one thing I'll say is that I will miss the silky smooth finish off the DW planer - but I still have to adjust the infeed/outfeed rollers to perfection so they do not leave marks on the workpiece.
Will post back here after install of the shelix head.
So I finally bit the bullet and got a G0453P. I'm not going to post a lengthy initial impression as I'm still in the process of tweaking the machine and I'm not sure my impressions will be that different than the myriads out there. I also still need to install the Byrd head, which I ordered separately.
Noise-wise, this thing is already so much quieter than the DW. Under no load, the noise level is 85dbA (at 3ft), and while planing with the straight knives, that goes to 93dbA. More of a low-pitched rumble than a screaming shopvac type of sound. In contrast, my DW was 95dbA under no load and 105dbA while planing. These are measured with an iPhone SPL meter, so relative rather than absolute values are relevant.
I imagine the Byrd head will knock another 10dbA off the cutting noise, bringing the operation of this machine noise-wise in line with other tools in my shop. I'm pleased.
As far as operation, the one thing I'll say is that I will miss the silky smooth finish off the DW planer - but I still have to adjust the infeed/outfeed rollers to perfection so they do not leave marks on the workpiece.
Will post back here after install of the shelix head.