DEWALT DW618PK
Performance	* * * * * (5 out of 5 stars)
Price	$250 (fixed-base & plunge kit) $190 (fixed base router only) $80 (D-handle base only)
Value	* * * * * (5 out of 5 stars)
Call DEWALT at 800/433-9258, or visit www.dewalt.com

I have a personal rule against buying multi-anything tools because each function typically compromises the others. DEWALT's new DW618PK multi-base router kit is an exception to the rule.

The heart of the system is the fixed-base DW618K, boasting soft-grip handles and a 2-hp, soft-start, electronic variable-speed motor. That removable motor also snaps into a matching plunge base or D-handle base. I cut some hefty mortises using the plunge base and detected no hint of strain from the machine.

Instead of rotating the motor in the fixed base to adjust the height, the DW618K's twist ring smoothly threads the motor up and down without rotating it. That means the power switch stays in one place: within easy reach of your thumb. In a thoughtful nod to left-handed users, DEWALT engineers designed the motor so you also can mount it with the switch on the left side.

Speaking of user-friendly engineering, the DW618K's detachable power cord makes the changeover to the D-handle base hassle-free. Simply twist the base of the cord to remove it from the motor, plug it into the base on the handle, then plug the D-handle's short cord into the motor, as shown above.

The true test of a multi-base kit is its plunge base, and this one proved fluid-smooth and steady. It also has through-the-plunge-post dust collection, which effectively cleared the chips from even deep mortises. My only gripe about the plunge base is that the beefy depth-stop rod hides a fair amount of the depth scale.

Almost as impressive as the performance is the number of accessories that come with the DW618PK. In addition to the fixed and plunge bases, the $250 kit includes a carrying case, 1/4" and 1/2" self-releasing collets, two clear Lexan subbases (one that accepts Porter-Cable-style guide bushings, and one with a larger 2-1/2" bit opening), and a neat concentricity tool--the cone-shaped gadget in the foreground of the photo--that centers the subbase (or your router table insert plate) over the collet.

The fixed-base router also comes in a 1-3/4-hp, fixed-speed configuration (model DW616K) for $30 less. It's also available in kit form with plunge- and D-handle bases.