[Ghost_Pack]

I would recommend the 5th gen MakerBots once the price drops (and it will drop) from $2,800 to $2,200 like the Replicator 2. Even if you can't wait, MakerBot is one of the most user friendly companies you can buy from, with quality to match. They are very easy to use, and can start printing right out of the box, with only simple modifications needed for exotic filament. Our team has used the Replicator 2 for 2 seasons now, and we are getting ready to start with the 5th gen.

RepRap printers are my second choice. They can be a pain to put together if you're buying a kit, and the customer service is non existent. In exchange for these inconveniences, you get great specs at a cheap price and room for customization. RepRap also has a great variety of printers to choose from, unlike MakerBot (this will remain true until the MakerBot Z18 and mini finally release). 2 Members of our team use RepRap printers, both are quite satisfied with their purchase and had them built before the month was out.

Steer clear of any and all 3D systems printers (Cube, CubeX, Cube 3, etc). 3D systems makes excellent professional grade printers, but make horrible consumer grade printers. The Cube systems have "proprietary" filament storage systems (basically DRM for your filament) meaning you can only by their expensive filament, and they have a tendency to break... a lot. 3D systems may look fancy, but thats all it is, looks.