[Woodcarver] Question about plunge routers

[Alex Bisso]

It looks like it is getting to be time for me to bite the bullet and get a plunge router to help get a good start on thick relief carving panels.  I have been shopping and have some ideas but would like some input from carvers who have experience with them.  One of my questions relates to HP or amp rating needed.  I am pretty sure that I would need at least a 2.25 HP, 12 amp but perhaps a 3.5 HP unit would be better.  I am not expecting to do a whole lot of carving - maybe 2-3 per year so maybe the 3.5 HP would be more than needed.  What do you think???
Also, what make/models have you found most to your liking?
Visibility while cutting seems important to me - which are the best in this regard?
Any input would be appreciated.
Alex Bisso

PS:  Thanks for the leads on finding white birch stateside.  The Hardwood Connection will be sending me some as compensation for cleaning out my bank account!
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