Given the nominal increase cost ($200) for the cast iron base, I would definitely recommend it when you look at relative to the total cost of the machine. The additional rigidity and weight go a long ways to making a smother machine, also cast iron has very good vibration dampening affects. I have often seen posting of a number of individuals reinforcing or adding weight to the sheet metal bases of their 1236 machines. Usually the foot brake mechanism goes through the headstock cabinet, making it unusable for storage. It is a big overall expense, so if you need to wait a bit longer to accumulate funds, in this case I think it is well worth it. I also have to give Kudos's to QMT for always trying to make their machines better and also trying to give his customers the most bang for their buck. Buyers (including myself) all need to be mindful that everything is built to a price point, so there are always some compromises the less expensive the machine.