The sky is the limit anymore on vacs. Some of the ones that are certified for use with the new lead laws are in the $500+ range. Otherwise I would recommend using filter bags inside to cut down on dust. Not much you can do about the exhaust flow.

 

I like these, you can spray as well. I once sprayed a whole house with it.

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Pintin, just go to the big box store and buy a vac.

 

Since new lead laws are going into effect, I'd get one with auto-start for the tools and then put one of these inline.

http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?...&filter=oneida&ne_ppc_id=776&ne_key_id=7953426&gclid=CIXrxI-KkKECFSI55QodmxEG5Q

 

We have a few of the Rigid ones from the big orange, they work fine.
Depends on what you are using them for.
Here is a good review from Scott.

If you need a HEPA for RRP, I have read some good things about this one.
http://www.dustlesstechnologies.com/hepavacuum.htm

 

That cyclone looks cool. But I would dragging that set up around. I just buy good filters and bags, and don't have an issue with blowing dust around, but I did learn that the hard way.

 

We also have a couple of the Rigids from HD, you can beat the hell out of them & they keep going, perfect for general use. If you fry it your only out 70.00 or so & they always go on sale.

 

With the new RRP rule, it would make sense to invest in one that will comply.

Although I am not positive they make one with the proper HEPA filtration (although I would be surprised if they did not) I have heard EXCELLENT reports about Fein.

I always felt investment in a vacuum was worth while. In 1974 (ish) I spent about $300 on an Electrolux commercial canister (looks like R2D2). Still works today, although not used daily on a job site.