I already had a router table, so I just bought a Sears router with removable bases for both plunge and regular use. The router I had was an earlier Sears version that had a plastic housing and was a pain to work with. A router is one of those things that really takes some work to master using as it is such a versatile tool. I have yet to master it.

I would make one word of caution since you said you are new to these tools. I would advise against using gloves whenever you are using saws, drills, or the router. If a bit or saw blade grabs the glove, it will pull your hand in making the injury much more serious. If you happen to hit your hand, your reflexes will naturally pull your hand away. You also pay better attention to your fingers when you are looking at skin rather than gloves.

I just got a good deal on two 10" carbide hollow ground saw blades via Ebay that are for use with aluminum and acrylic. These are going to be great for cutting alu and acrylic on my table saw and miter saw.