I can't see these been hard to copy to a good degree as they are pretty basic machines if everyone is been honest . A stigma on the other hand are quite complicated machines and has had alot more engineering knowhow used to make them. I'm Not telling people to buy them I'm just saying I personally would of tried this first to see what there like. I like new gadgets that come out I'm like a magpie and have more machines than I could ever possibly need . Somebody who is honest and uses a whip on a regular basis needs to buy one for a real comparison Only someone in that position to tell the truth. I know one thing the Chinese are getting onto these expensive machines like a rash stigma will be next on the production Line just a matter of time . A sad but true fact