A Poll: Should the Machine be bought now or wait

[avboy5000]

Please Owner of the Carvewright only,

[steevo]

The machine is a bit high maintenance at this point. If you like messing with machines go for it. Between the time I would spend designing (which is how I would prefer to spend my time) and the time I would spend tweaking the machine/redoing projects I don't think it is time to buy - wait 6mo to year I would guess. CW seems to be having a few growing pains as they transition from beta to production. When they get the bugs with the mass production in China worked out it will be one top notch product.

I got mine friday and am on the fence about keeping this early version of the production machine. Would like to spend more time designing and less time dealing with z axis problems and carving bits that don't always listen to the computer. I am very curious to see what kind of machines are being produced in 6mo or so. Whaddaya expect for 2 grand? I guess that is the question..

I know others have had a better experience - maybe you'll get lucky with the machine you get. Good Luck!

[Jeff_Birt]

I think this an interesting insight into human nature. It is interesting to see how different folks react to problems. I spent several years doing field service on different types of equipment, including robotics and CNC controlled plasma and flame cutters. One thing I have learned is that some people make a real effort to find a resolution to a problem and some people you just can’t please.

I read over the forums for several weeks before deciding to buy a CompuCarve/CarveWright. What made a lasting impression on me was how the company stood behind their product. I was left with the impression that CW would be there when I needed them. I picked up my machine in mid December and did have a problem with in a few weeks. I called CW; I did not get through the first day, but I only tried twice. I called the next day, talked to some real nice people and they sent out the part I needed. Ideally, I would not have needed to replace the Z-axis motor, but I did, and CW was there to stand behind their product without a hassle.

I volunteered to be a forum moderator, and was told by CW that they keep all posts up, the good the bad and the ugly. They want people to be able to make an informed decision. This also impressed me.

It floors me to see people freak out when they cannot get a problem resolved ‘this very instant’. I mean, come on – grow up. But then, I saw the same thing when I worked on equipment in the field. Some people you just can’t please. So, for those handful of folks who are having fits because your can’t get your new $2,000 toy to work at ‘this very instant’ (or since Friday) ; step back, take a deep breath and go have the beverage of your choice (I prefer coffee, some home roasted Ethiopian to be exact) . Get good nights sleep and take a fresh look at things tomorrow.

[The Bard]

hot chocolate For The Win!

[Jon Jantz]

I selected "Right Now"

Been very happy with my machine. A few errors here and there and a couple of messed up boards... but just as much my fault as the machines.

But if you're gonna be a whiner or class action suer... how about "NEVER"

[menewfy]

I was not expecting growing pains even though I did read alot before i bought. For the more experienced 2k might seem likea steal but to me it is a large sum and I was looking forward to getting it and rockin. The more I read and learn it seems to me that CW has a great attitude about customer service and they want to help you out and get you back up and running.

As a specific example I think I am the only person in Canada to own one of these and as such because they don't ship internationally I was not too sure about the support I would get, I am glad to report not only did they not mind calling me to try and figure out my issues(with the machine not my head) they are also picking up half the shipping tab so I can afford to get it fixed instead of returning it. I am somehwat impressed with the machine (out of their control), however I am very impressed with the company (totally within their control)

Thanks CW looking forward to getting my machine back and running.

I would definitely recommend getting one right now, dont fool yourself you will have issues with it guarenteed and you will also have help to deal with them.

Look at it this way as you are solving your issues you are getting FREE training on your unit for future reference LOL.

[Digitalwoodshop]

I just ordered my unit from Sears... Full Price..... I could drive 50 miles to a store.... Wanted to wait but I believe this is the best decision. I want to perfect a line of 911 house number signs before the tourist season begins again here in the Pocono's.

Add me to the "Right NOW" list....

AL

Pocono Digital Woodshop

Shohola, PA

Laser Engraving, Sublimation, and soon V Carved Signs

Edit Update: Saw where some people were still getting the discount tonight. Called Sears Customer Service in Atlanta and talked to Rose. I placed a new order after she checked and my order placed this morning was not in the computer yet. Turns out that the number on the www.sears.com/carve page is a company taking orders for units then batch entering them in a few days into the Sears system. They didn't want to hear discount this morning, just full price. So I still ordered. Bet that unit will be on the slow boat from China.... Guys ordering at a store are getting better response time plus the discount. Rose offered me the Tool Club price tonight and I placed an order with her and I bet it gets here first. As far as the other one, I will tail chase it tomorrow and try to stop it. With the business I have planned for the unit doing 911 house number signs a second unit wouldn't be so bad..... Especially if one crashes..... The guy at the /carve number couldn't even give me a order conformation number just the number to Sears customer service to ask them for it. I believe the Atlanta call center is working late tonight due to the bad weather in the west taking calls. My hat goes off to Rose who went above and beyond the call to duty researching my order and getting me the discount. Joined the Tool Club tonight too before calling Rose but she said I needed the card in hand to get the discount in 6 weeks..... Bah Humbug.

Talking to Rose tonight reminded me of when I worked for Sony at the Service Center. I talked to a lot of customers and I really tried to help them. It's nice to meet someone like Rose that cares. Thanks Rose!!!

One last thing, Rose said they orderd about 7 unit tonight for people.

[Ken-S]

I say if you have to ask this question you should wait. I do not know but from what I read it seam that CW is working on the problems and putting out fixes. So if you have to ask give it 6m hopfuly most of the bugs will be fix. But if you are like me I am willing to try and work with the bugs to get mine toy.

[David M.]

I would and do recommend this machine to anyone I think might be interested or in need. I've had mine for some time now (one of the original 200) and have had very good results. Minor issues (98% me). The more I learn the more I look back and said "ohhhh that's what happened".

[Bmac]

If you're the kind of person who walks through a store, sees something really neat and just has to have it.... this isn't the machine for you.

I would guess that a fair number of those who are dissatisfied with the machine saw the ad on television, had to have it and fell for the marketing.