Definitely get the hard pad. I've sanded a lot of table tops, XL cutting boards and glued up shelves with my RO150 feq. I've used the Rotex mode occassionally, but mostly use the random orbit mode. I usually start with 80 grit and on to 100, 120, 150, 180 and 220. I've found that with the RO sander, skipping a grit can leave noticeable swirl marks when the finish is applied. Let the sander do the work, using little downward pressure. l use the attachable front handle for one hand and hold on to the rear barrel of the sander in order to keep the sander flat on the work piece. Start by moving the sander slowly perpendicular to the grain, then parallel to the grain for each grit. You can get a really nice finish with these sanders if you take the time. As a previous poster mentioned, if you have the funds, spring for a RO150. Substantially increased surface area of a 6" pad over a 5" pad. Sanding will go faster and will help keep the piece flatter.
