I am still researching lasers, and now I am trying to find out all I can about the LaserPro Spirit model. I know I can ask my local Laser pro rep, and he is a great guy, but some things do not add up.
The price for a 30W Spirit is $16K, and the price for a 40W Spirit is $21K. Another new LaserPro model, the C180 Table Top lists a 30W at $11K, and the 40W at $13K.
Now, if say, for instance, my LaserPro rep refuses to sell me a 40W Spirit for $18K, then would it be possible to purchase a 40W C180, and a 30W Spirit, swap the lasers.
Then I could sell the 30W C180 for $11K, and in effect net a 40W Spirit for $18K, saving $3K?
OK, so what I am saying is I do not understand the Spirit pricing. Is is gouging, or are they trying to be like car dealers and sell you some fancy trim, or other features that the 30W don't include?
I know I need at least 35 watts to do the same work I am currently doing at the same throughput, but the 35 watt lasers are no longer offered, and I don't want to go any slower, but I don't want to throw good money away just for show either.
My friend has the Mini 24 40W, and had spent considerable time trying to get his speed up to match my 35w LaserPro Venus, but he still runs 25-30% slower to get the same quality work. The problem is the XY mechanism on the Mini 24 vibrates and draws squiggly lines at any faster speeds. The LaserPro mechanism is much tighter, with less oscillation of the head. This is on thin .018" plywood. On the thicker .032" plywood, the Mini is faster due to the power and the radiance optics.
I do very little engraving, mostly all vector cutting. My material comes in 12" x 48" sheets, and the more I can load into the system, the less material swap time I have. Sometimes I swap a sheet out of my laser every 2 minutes, and doing 500 is a hassle.
Any wisdom? Anyone intimate with a LaserPro Spirit's insides?
-Thanks,
Robert