Upgrade to PM105 or PM1650 with Duramax Machine Torch?

[Stout]

I'm looking to upgrade from my PM1250 to the PM105 but a PM1650 has come up at a great price. With the Duramax machine torch upgrade, I'm looking at half the cost of a PM105. Jim, can you give me your thoughts on the two options?

[jimcolt]

Putting the Duramax torch on the 1650 will allow the 1650 to cut with similar quality, and similar consumable life as the Powermax105 has. Both the 1650 and the 105 are 3 phase only machines. The 1650 was discontinued when the 105 was introduced...early in 2012.

Advantages of the 105 over a 1650 with Duramax torch upgrade:

-105 amps vs 100 amps. Also higher load voltage rating.
-The 105 has a higher duty cycle range...is lighter and smaller than the 1650.
-The 105 has a quick disconnect torch connection...1650 requires a little more work to change the torch.
-105 has a digital display with full diagnostic capabilities. It even records events so that a service tech can determine any particular problems that have been ongoing....a lot like automotive diagnostics.
-105 has automatic torch sensing, can tell the difference between a machine torch and a hand torch, a 25' lead length and a 50 foot lead length...and automatically adjusts cut parameters to compensate.
-105 has auto gas pressure...no need to ever adjust a regulator.
-Has a more advanced cnc machine interface capability.
-And...of course, a new machine warranty!

I'm looking to upgrade from my PM1250 to the PM105 but a PM1650 has come up at a great price. With the Duramax machine torch upgrade, I'm looking at half the cost of a PM105. Jim, can you give me your thoughts on the two options?

[Stout]

Thanks for the response Jim. No decision just yet.