There are some great alternatives especially for laser cutting.
The western machines are known for exceptional engraving.
For cutting the Chinese machines do a wonderful job
Talk to Nolan at Thunder laser for power recommendations.
I would guess around 100 watts would be enough. I have 130 watts and 10mm cuts good (solid wood). I don't cut plywood
so someone else would have to chime in on that. Just remember when looking at power ratings on a glass tube that
you cant run it at 100% power. You need to stay around 80 - 90% under that rating for good tube life.
That means a 100 watt tube should be run around 80 watts max.
Gozzie