Choice of color laser for heavy media

hi,

im using a laserjet 4m now & will like to upgrade to either color hp3500 or hp3600. I will be printing lots of heavy media, around 210-245gsm, & was informed a machine with a straight thru path will be the best.

hp3500 is an older model but has a rear output door for a straight thru paper path. It states 163 gsm as the higest media weight possible, but been tested to be able to take up to 230 gsm with few jams.

Hp3600 is a new model & is stated to accept 220gsm media but does not have a rear output door for a straight thru path.

Strictly based on the criteria of heavy media usage, which will be better ? & Why did HP reomve the rear output door ? Any chance because the new machines run a straight path already, through its' normal output ? Or can someone recommend any other printer less than US$1000 ?

Much thanks

Remmys