Looking for opinions on tables

[Wakes]

Hi I'm looking to pick up a new 8' table for a home and I posted in the Main Forum but the folks who frequent there suggested that I ask you guys for a more qualified answer.

I am interested in the following(and other suggestions sub 6k):
Olhausen Blackhawk
Olhausen Donna Marie
Brunswick Sorrento

I am looking for differences in playing characteristics(pocket difficulty/speed) and build quality.

What I would like to know is what is different between the two Olhausen tables other than a little router work. Is the construction/playing quality much different or what?

Is the Brunswick a better table than the Olhausens? I am a tad concerned with the made in china/taiwan/brasil deal with Brunswick. Otherwise the Brunswick is really eye catching.

I've never had the pleasure of playing any of the tables. I've grown up on a 5x10 National with a snooker setup. I plan to try the tables when I get down to the store to make a purchase but I'd like some input before I head down there in a couple weeks. I've also been recommended a Diamond Po-Am so I've been looking for a local dealer.

Thanks!

 

[Grilled Cheese]

If it doesn't have to be a decorative home table, I'd get the Diamond. Although, they have some stylish home tables too.

But if you want best play, and solid construction - it's the Diamond.


In the other thread asking a similar question, there are photos of a Diamond frame. Very solid.

 

[Wakes]

It seems that like yourself most people seem to be recommending Diamond first but it looks like decoration is more important to my brothers than I had originally anticipated. So we are leaning towards Olhausen, what I would like to know is how much should the slightly beefier legs and thicker construction of the Donna Marie(or Signature series) over smaller construction of a table like the Blackhawk(or Portland series) affect the purchasing decision. It seems like a rather large upcharge for a little extra routing and some thicker wood, but if it genuinly is the way to go I don't mind spending.