Hello!
I agree with the idea of avoiding a transformer or converter to go from 220-230 to 110v.
I'm in france , so I can tell only about things I see around.
First bad thing about this metabo thicknesser is the use of aluminium as a guiding plate.
the guiding plate MUST be made of die-cast iron. Because wood is abrasive. cast-iron
will wear- out , but a lot slower than aluminium.
The second thing that comes in my mind is that thoses thicknessers are usually in heavy-duty use and the Motor MUST be a brushless, type NOT an "universal motor"
this Metabo got an universal motor then it looks just a DIY machine for litle occasional works.
Got myself a metabo planer thicknesser type rd 26f (260mm-10") jointer table is aluminium and will wear , thicknesser is dye-cast iron ( better) motor is a strong 3 HP brushless.Name changed it's now:Metabo Raboteuse HC 260 C - 2,2 WNB
Weight is 71 Kg. 220-230 monophase.The aluminium vertical fence is a bit weak and I need to check it with a small precision square before use.
This machine works happyly for hours and hours with two guys feeding it.
(Design was made by lurem)
Catalogue outils (semi-) stationnaires - Produits - Metabo France - Des outils de professionnels pour des professionnels
A lighter one is the kity-scheppach.Dégau-Rabot 439 The tables are dye-cast iron !
but smaller 200mm - 8 " width. A good brushless motor and 41 Kg.
Those kity french machines are quite simple, but efficient and reliable.
(no bells and whisle)
A good choice if wheight is a problem.
Scheppach : Kity » - Hobelmaschinen »
You might also find really old machines wheighting around 70Kg that are really well made, missed one for around 100 euros..
Think about the amount of work you have and how long you want to keep the machine..
Or use it as disposable , and use warranty .
Regards.