I'm looking into getting a laser for making mostly small things (jewelry, key chains, etc). I work on a lot of projects with two other people, and we're all graphic designers that do art on the side. We'd mostly be interested in cutting and engraving our own designs on 1/4" or less woods and acrylic so we could have smaller things for sale at shows, etc. We're not trying to go into business via engraving or anything. Just some hobby fun, but nice enough to sell.
I've been combing through the forum for about a week (and various other sites for some time) and was thinking about the Epilog Zing, but the rep is suggesting the Mini24 30watt instead. I'm also trying to read more info on the Trotecs, but I'm a little stuck at this point.
Can anyone offer some advice? I don't mind spending more than the bottom-of-the-line entry level price, but I also don't want to jump the gun and buy something that's way more laser than I'm needing. I'm definitely all for a good brand with excellent customer service, but that's the only thing I'm sold on so far. Will 30watts be enough for us? Do we need to double our spending limit?