Multi-router
A competative machine to the MR is the WoodRat. Also powered by a router. I have one and there is a lively community forum at woodrat.com in England, where the WR is made. You can get a $5 DVD demo from chipsfly.com.
For a $1500 less money you get the same functionality, and most important, dust collection. I'm just learning to use my WoodRat, so I won't wave the flag. I've only made sliding dovetails and finger joints. But - so I'm told - the machine is the 'cat's meow' for dovetails, mortise and tenon, and other joints.
As an example of the WR's versatility, I am going up to the regional warehouse in California for Festool next month to buy some equipment. But, as excited as I am about their new Domino, I'm going to save my $660 and not buy one. I think the WR will duplicate most of its functionality. I may be wrong.
Both the Multi-Router and WoodRat work as a sort of router-powered CNC machine. Without the computer. Fortunately, their are a lot of folks on the Internet willing to advise on the WR. A huge collection of advice, jigs and WR commentary can be found at aldel.co.uk.
Gary Curtis