I run a small TIG welding and plasma cutting shop dealing in mostly alloys and exotic metals. (Western Canada)

The time has come to grow again-
I have a 35k USD budget for a VMC , new or used

Not a machinist. - I realize there is a lot of hobby advice for guys trying to put these into home garages ect.

This is going into a 3000 sqf shop with 208 3 phase power.

I have run the plasma table with mach 3 for a few years and bought the "cheaper option" when we were shopping for that. - trying to not do this again

This time I would rather buy the best VMC I can and figure it out /grow into it.

I have searched the forums and found lots of advice on the 5-15k budgets shopping for Tormach, chinese, retro fitting old machines, & old mills from the '80-90s

Can someone point me in the right direction here?


My work flow would be:

Fusion360 for CAD/CAM, typically making aluminum and some steel parts. (automotive)

4th or 5th axis option or ability, and just a down-right reliable unit

Can anyone point me in the right direction?