Put simply guys, I was looking for a Manufacturer and Machine that would
1) fit my requirements
2) fit those which I anticipated of many others
3) generate a solid user-base around which practical and useful info would freely flow
4) provide a sufficiently large user-base so that 'adaptation' could potentially happen for things such as an 'independent SW Application' [or preferably adopt OpenPnP and it's 'vision' counterpart]. Having made this last point, I truly believe that QiHe will continue to listen to its users and respond in tempo - a hugely great benefit for any potential buyer.
So, though I have little, to no, interest in becoming a distributor, I would definitely like to promote this Manufacturer and Machine combination if it meets the expectations I currently have for it.
In this regard I think my direction and goals are similar to many others.
The ONE THING that made the difference and my decision easy [for me at least] is it's use of commercial-grade, reliable and easily swap-able component feeders. As you may already know, it uses the Yamaha CL type feeders which have been the backbone of many a PnP machine throughout the world for a long time now. They are pneumatic, so cheap to produce and maintain than electric feeders - the major downside being max feed rate is slower [but still plenty for most requirements.
So ... let's build the numbers guys!
This is a relatively expensive machine [from a hobbyist's point of view], and a very inexpensive machine from a CM's point of view, but I believe it is the sort of solution that is perfect for someone looking to accommodate up to 80+ diff components per load/project - [56x 8mm feeders + 30x tray-type], and needs to runs components no smaller than 0402. Intend to make custom 'trays' for each different project to handle the 1 & 2 off per board components, where the 56 feeders happen to 'run short'.
BTW - though I've not yet tried it, my design thinking here is to laminate some approx 3mm thick non-EDS material with double-sided adhesive, laser-cut the pockets in it to suit, then adhere it to a 6mm Aluminium plate. Quick, flexible and relatively easy solution to increase the max component-type count.
Cheers - Peter