Looking to upgrade

CNC Machines Shapeoko
1

I love my XXL. I’ve had it for about 2 years now and it’s been a real game changer for me. So much so that I’m looking to upgrade to a full sized CNC. Something that can be a full 4x8’ panel. Anyone have experience or recommendations on a good quality machine?

2

There are some folks in a local CNC group where I am that have Legacy CNC machines that they seem very happy with, however, they are not what I would consider an affordable step up unless you count an exponential step as the next one.
https://lwmcnc.com/

I’ve seen quite a few Youtubers running CNC Router Parts machines, but they are not cheap either. Unfortunately my personnel experience is limited to my SO3.
https://www.cncrouterparts.com/

I just had a discussion with a Legacy owner the other day. Besides the obvious mechanical stuff to look for in a good upgrade like rack / pinion X / Y axis, and ball screw Z-axis, I learned that almost all the reputable bigger machines are running an Ethernet connection to the control board, not a serial or USB connection. That was news to me, so I’m reading up on it.

3

I am in the process of building a Routaki HD 4x4 router. I am very impressed with the customer service and rigidity of the machine. I would highly recommend them and they can get you set up on a 4x8 machine as well.

https://www.routakit.com/store.html?afmc=1m

4

I am in the same boat as you.
I just bought a Zenbot for $3,600. Thats with Gecko 540 control box, but no steel stand, and no Mach3 (I already have that).
http://www.zenbotcnc.com/all-products/zenbot-4896-4x8-cnc-router
It’s not here yet, but it’s the cheapest 4’ X 8’ I could find. At least it has homing switches, but I haven’t got it delivered yet

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When you get it set up and running will you please let me know what you think?

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I will. Its a 3 week lead time, right now :slight_smile:

7

Some questions I’m thinking of to help people give more finely tuned guidance:

Are you looking to tinker or looking for “it just works”?

Is this for hobby or money-making adventures?

What’s your budget?

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