Whatever machine you decide on, unless you are doing a lot of large, flat, panels, like say on a boat or airplane or huge RV, I would steer clear of huge pads and stick with either 5.5 or if you really need it, 6" pads, with the appropriate backing plate.
The smaller diameter pads are going to be easier to control, and with a Random Orbital, the smaller diameter pad is easier for the machine to rotate, so you can get the product to correct better.
I have a Makita 9227c and a Flex PE14-250 Rotary and they work great but then I use a Rotary on every vehicle because this works best for me. I also use 5-5.5" diameter pads on everything. I use the bigger pads on airplanes only..
If you get a Rotary, get one with as has already been said, a variable speed trigger preferably starting at 600 rpm and going up past 3000 rpm. This way you can ease the machine on and there is less chance of anything going bad while you are learning, etc..
Try not to get a rotary that starts up at over 1,000 rpm. I know lots of people like these too, but if you are learning and all, it is just so much easier to start it up slower and get a feel for it. Here is the secret - you have to keep it moving, especially at higher speeds - do not stop on one spot and grind into the paint until you have a lot of experience.
Good luck !
Dan F
