I was definitely not trying to offend with that comment. He is looking for a minimal investment desktop laser. I have seen some small desktop models made in china sold here in the US anywhere from $1,500 -$3,500. Universal Lasers comparable model goes for somewhere between $6,500-$7,500. $7,500 is minimal to me, if you are starting a small engraving business. One of the things to look for is what type of laser tube it has, glass or metal. Most of the cheaper ones have a glass laser tube. Universal uses their own proprietary sealed metal laser tube. Metal vs. glass? The metal tube has a much smaller spot size, which equates to higher detail engraving. Also most of the glass tubes are only warranted for 60-90 days. I have been told by a distributor to expect to change the glass tubes at least once a year, so their life span is much much much shorter than a metal tube. I have yet to ever have to change the tubes in my Universals. KNOCK ON WOOD! I hope this helps out a bit.
