This is my first biscuit jointer. I was leaning towards the PC 557 when I started looking, but after I visited local store and handled both, I picked this one. Not only saved [money], but this one is more comfortable to handle to  me and the trigger switch is awesome to use. And for the things I make, I  won't need the smaller knife anyway. The only problem with this machine is  the dust control. The dust bag does not work at all. It will make a mess  after a few cuts and get the chips all over my face. So I picked up Porter  Cable 39332 Vacuum Hose for 1" O.D. Dust Ports and couple of adapters  hooked up to my Jet dust collector since DeWalt does not make any of those.  Now I am a very happy camper.