Looking for a Drum Sander, Found Something Interesting

[Alex Gefilte]

I am in the market for a 16-18 inch drum sander to add to my shop and have been comparing the JET and Supermax models. While looking on Woodcraft.com the past few days, I noticed that the JET Sanders have dropped pretty significantly in price. This is what I found:

JET 1632 is $1,099.99, down from $1,299.99
JET 1836 is $1,299.99, down from $1,397.99

I believe their larger 22-44's have dropped in price as well, but I am not really in the market for that size. I read in Woodworkers Journal that the JET sanders have really efficient dust collection as well as some other notable features. I think SuperMax may be coming out with a new sander this month as well?

Has anyone compared the 2 brands? Thoughts on added value with the lower price?

Thanks everyone!

[Michelle Rich]

yes, I saw an ad for the 19-38. It has digital readout and a bar to pull for big adjustments , instead of cranking the handle like a banshee when one goes from a thin board to a thick board

[Alex Gefilte]

I noticed that, has me thinking about the Supermax a little more. My only thought is I don't often go from thin to thick in the same sanding session. But good to see the company's like JET and Supermax investing in innovation with the machines.

[richard poitras]

I have seen the Jet and SM in person and the SM would be my pic hands down.

[Cary Falk]

I have seen the Jet and SM in person and the SM would be my pic hands down.

Same here. I compared both at Woodcraft and went with a SM 25-50.