Hello,
I also have the Makita 2012NB. The build quality of this machine is excellent and the results are superb. I have not had any issues with it and although I looked at other models (Dewalt, Metabo etc), I do not regret buying the Makita at all and would give it 10 out of 10 for performance and build quality. Personally I would highly recommend it. It worked perfectly right out of the box and I have been using ever since for the last few years as a workshop based thicknesser. I have little space so needed a smallish benchtop machine and this ticked all the boxes.
An upgrade option for a spiral cutter head is available from some suppliers online and may be something worth considering if not too expensive. Some woodworkers highly recommend a spiral cutter. Would be nice but as yet I have not seen the need, and get perfect results as is, even with oak and other hardwoods. I always only make a small cut at a time which I think helps in many respects.
Hope this helps. There the many makes, models and options available. I suppose it depends on your budget and what you expect of want from such a machine and how much use it will get.
Good luck with your choice.
