Official Luthiers Forum!

I'm getting ready to by a Porter Cable 690 router to cut dovetails in guitar neck/body. Is there any reason I should get the variable speed as opposed to the fixed? Don't want to spend the extra money if it isn't necessary.

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Formerly know as Mandodiddle.

I can't comment on the varible speed, though I have had a total of 6 of these routers. I used them on a cnc machine and never found a need for the lower speed.

I will tell you that you had better get your arms in good shape as this is a heavy router.

Mike

My 690 is 20 years old .. only thing I have changed (besides bits !!) are one set of brushes and the switch ... the things a tank.

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Tony Karol
www.karol-guitars.com
"let my passion .. fulfill yours"

The 690 is a real workhorse and comes with 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch collettes. If you need variable speed you can buy a router speed control from Harbor Freight.

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A higher purpose for wood.
Rich Smith
Issaquah, WA

Is this TRULY a PC router? (now)


Mike

Variable speed is really only useful to spin large dimater bits. They must be slowed down so the tips speed doesn't get ridiculous.

Thanks everybody. That's what I was hoping to here.

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Formerly know as Mandodiddle.

Honestly, I rarely use the variable speed, but it's nice to have. Most of all, the soft start is nice to have; don't like the kick on the non-VS routers I have.