Duplicarver or Multicarver?

[thunderplucker]

I have been shopping for a router duplicator and came up with a couple of options. One is the Terrco Marlin CM624 and the other is a Multicarver 1020. Does anyone have experiece with these machines or other options that are better in a similar price range ($1000 to $2500)? Any advise would be much appreciated. Thanks!

[Michael Lewis]

I use an old Marlin that I have re worked and am in the process of re engineering to get better accuracy (adding lead screws). It is a fairly sturdy structure but needs some help. The Multi Carver with lead screws can be a very nice outfit. There was one being demonstrated at the NAMM show. I have seen a Gemini that is fine for basic work, but it is quite a bit lighter in construction. The best one for you depends on what you need from it. They all can be helpful, but you should check them out on the internet first, then call the companies and talk to some one that knows the answers you want.

[mandomaniac]

T: Depending on your ultimate application (?CNC) and your desired tolerances....have you considered the shop built approach? Surplus linear beaings/shafts, some basic framework ( really not hard and can also set up to keep router bit always aligned at same angle to workpiece), and doubled 3/4" 4 x 8 MDF table can pretty much do a great job for a FRACTION of the figure you noted. I am pretty happy with my rig. Definitely not comparable to CNC results, but meets my needs. Tom

[thunderplucker]

Thnaks Michael and Tom,

Michael,
I gave these folks a call and of course, they all say theirs is the best. I am mostly looking to use it for roughing out plates and neck profiles at this point. I may have other uses for it as I learn more about it's capabilities. I have done everything by hand at this point and have come up with some good graduations and would like to duplicate those as a starting point. I am leaning towards the Multicarver since it seems to be the most stable and the beafiest of the three. If anyone who has used these or are currently using these, I would love for you to chime in. Micheal, what do you use? Thanks again for the replies.

[Michael Lewis]

As stated previously, I use an old Marlin. It's big enough for making cello plates, I don't use it for that, but do use it for archtop guitar plates. The design needs stabilizing if you want any accuracy. Cliff Sargent uses a Gemini that has a hand operated brake that is a big help. It's a lighter constructed outfit but great for roughing out the plates etc.