Makerbot should never get credit for it after they chose to leave the community. Markerbot is actually a Reprap ripoff!
That said, I will be waiting for the next set of articles. This is good! :)
Reprap for anyone reading this is totally awesome. I didn't include it in my post but Reprap is an open source 3D-printer that can make itself...
It's basically the hardware version of the singularity: http://reprap.org/
Electronics and strong materials (steel mostly) are not included, and it takes quite a bit of assembly.
But yes, it awesome.
I think you're just talking about a self-replicating machine like a Von Neumann Probe. (check out the show Lexx if you want to see the hilarious end result of this)
They are a bit pricey, but there's the option of buying used - lots of people buy 3d printers, and then realize they don't use 'em and so sell them second hand.
Ultimaker is a supporter of open source hardware: https://ultimaker.com/en/blog/17799-releasing-our-source-fil...
The best 3D printer IMO is the Original Prusa sold by Josef Prusa himself. shop.prusa3d.com
3D Hubs also has a great section on 3D Printer reviews and ratings.