low angle smoother

[RobNichols]

I absolutely require a plane to be able to take a decent cut then take a finer cut consecutively.

Two planes is the best bet for that IMO. Look at the secondhand market. You can pick up a 4 & 5 for very little outlay.

A lot of people use a No. 5 for what would be better handled by a No. 6.

No.6 is nice plane too, when you want just a little more heft and they don't seem to have the premium prices that 7 and 8s get on the second hand market. I'd still argue that a No.5 is a better all round plane.