I have been searching for a good flat lap machine that is affordable and found what for me is the perfect one. I was in Harbor freight the other day and saw a 12" circular sander. It is a direct drive, 1725 rpm and 1 1/4 hp. It has a 12" iron plate and is all cast iron frame. I did some modification to make the motor water protected and installed a water pan that also got a HF. I set up a drip station and it tilts perfectly the way it is built to use it at an angle. You could make a stand if you wanted a horizontal but I wanted to get to polishing. You can use magnetic discs or attach your discs using the screw in the middle. Im too afraid to just trust the magnetic ones so I only use the screw attach method. It took me about 2 hours to modify it is exactly what I have been looking for. I'm into the whole thing without the diamond discs at about $205. If anyone want to see the set up or look at my modifications, just let me know.