How great that you all liked the idea!
I was surprised that there seemed to be little in the aftermarket for these router modules.
But, now I know some of you have been into thinking and discussing improvements.
Thanks you guys for bringing it up again.
In writing to [member=59331]TSO Products[/member] - There might be quite a market in Europe as well. I know Germany is big, I even know that from Scandinavia these router modules are scarce at pre-owned sales.
My believe is that these are not items most owners will sell. At least not now when discontinued.
That doesn’t mean that it isn’t a market, more likely so - an ability to buy insert rings, plates that accepts more routers - with the option of a more proper router lift. (Although the two “lifts” that came with these modules isn’t really great - but the design of Festool routers more or less demands these special lifts - the earliest one is essentially a screw... [huh])
I guess there are great number of router modules in the US.. once available I’d guess there will be a huge interest.
The adoption of an insert that has a shape of a “standard” router plate will enhance these modules into one of the most desirable router tables.
1. The CMS GE is in fact a true portable table. With legs up on a firm surface it’s great.
Even with the legs down it’s good enough for router use.
2. Both the VL and GE accepts accessories such as in and outfeed tables - readily available.
3. The versatility and features, considering the great fence also, is not met by any competitor. So I think. - I researched a lot before buying - almost every other manufacturer has some L-profile steel sub frame, the fences vary, but most are pretty basic. To add to that they are fairly expensive compared to the package of Festool CMS OF. Even with it’s shortcomings.
The CMS OF is more or less identical to a scaled down stationary shaper situated in almost any woodshop here - I see loads of new and old shapers for sale here - pre-owned and new. Most look like the CMS OF - or more correctly: The other way around. Dust collection, fences functions, roller table - after using my CMS OF I could probably set up a large scale professional shaper the same way.
Speaking for myself, and judging by the interest here as well, I would definitely invest more in my table(s) - I’m considering keeping both modules, especially if I can make them even more versatile - and free my Festool routers more from the table and buy a second or two for table use. But I want the CMS OF functionality.
