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theguitarwhisperer:

I noticed that and had the same thought as well

Filippo:

I no longer have any doubt that the JET machine would be sufficient for my humble needs, but here's my thinking:
It seems it is possible to get a table saw for between £100 and £200, but I think with a bit of patience I could get something really well built second hand for that money. I'm not looking for a big saw, the one I mentioned seeing in action was no bigger than the JET in table size (in fact a bit smaller) but it was floor standing not bench top. It also had a cast iron table. If possible, I'd like to avoid buying more than one, but I'll keep an open mind.

A lot can be said for having a bench top saw, William. It doesn't take up a dedicated space, you can use it outside, put it in the trunk of your car, build an outfeed table to tackle bigger jobs, etc.
As much as you would like to avoid buying more than one saw, only time will tell. When I first started woodworking, I bought a little 8" table top saw that got lots of use. I never thought I would need anything bigger. Next was a cast iron 10" contracters saw that cut thousands of BF of wood, that my nephew still uses. Now I have a 14" cabinet saw.
My only regret was selling that first saw. I will probably buy another benchtop saw sometime soon because of the reasons I gave, above.

Alex

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"Indecision is the key to flexibility" .... Bumper sticker

I got by without a table saw for a long time, but I finally got one ( used Craftsman portable contractor) with the intention of moving to a power fret slotting system. I still haven't got the fret saw blade yet, but I think it's about the most used saw in my shop now. Especially for roughing out stuff and jigs. Diablos eat plywood 10x better for 1/2 the price of woodslicers!
It is a little scary. A healthy fear and knowledge of the machine is essential. I always put my game face on and every cut is like game point. EVERY CUT IS GAME POINT.

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Pat

If you go the Tablesaw route be sure to include a stabiliser disc set in your shopping bag. The thin blades do wobble and follow grain even if the spindle has close to zero runout.