A solid choice for woodworking enthusiasts looking for a reliable and user-friendly HVLP spray system.
If you’re finishing projects more than a few times a year and want a clean, professional look you should consider investing in an HVLP (High Volume, Low Pressure) spray system. It offers several practical benefits that can greatly improve both the quality and efficiency of your work. One of the main advantages is the superior finish quality it provides. An HVLP system delivers a smooth, even, and professional-looking surface that’s difficult to achieve with a brush or roller, particularly on large panels, detailed moldings, or curved parts.
Spraying also saves a significant amount of time compared to brushing or rolling, especially when finishing multiple pieces or large projects like cabinets and furniture. Because HVLP systems operate at lower pressure than traditional spray guns, they produce less overspray, which means less wasted material, easier cleanup, and more efficient use of finishes. This makes them especially well-suited for small workshop environments where space and ventilation might be limited.
Another benefit is their versatility. A good HVLP system can be used with a wide range of finishes, including shellac, lacquer, polyurethane, stains, dyes, and even thinned latex paints. The spray gun offers precise control over the spray pattern and material flow, allowing for cleaner application with fewer drips or runs — ideal for detailed or high-visibility projects.
HVLP systems are also safer and more manageable for indoor use due to their reduced overspray and lower air pressure. Although the initial cost may seem high, the long-term savings in time, finish materials and the ability to produce professional results can make it a worthwhile investment.
The Earlex 5700 Spray Station is a mid-tier HVLP spray system that has some great features at an affordable price.
Company: Wagner
Model: 2443205
Price: $449.00
Made In: Poland
Source: Leevalley.com
Key Features:
- 2.2 PSI turbine motor
- 2-stage turbine
- 42 cfm air flow at 2.2 PSI
- 7′ power cord
- 19″ L x 7 1/2″ W x 8″ H
- 2 year warranty
- Includes: 1 qt. PTFE coated paint container, 15′ hose and connector for spray gun, 1.5mm and 2.0mm stainless-steel fluid needles and fluid tips, wrench, cleaning brush, viscosity cup
Functionality
The Earlex 5700 includes several key features that make it especially attractive for home workshops and small to medium size projects around the home.
At its core is a 2.2 PSI turbine motor, which provides consistent airflow for smooth, even finishes. A 15-foot hose connects the turbine to the spray gun, giving you plenty of mobility for working around larger pieces without having to reposition the base unit. The hose is lightweight yet durable, and I find that the gun feels well-balanced in hand.
One of the standout components is the Pro 6 professional-grade metal spray gun. It includes a 1-quart PTFE (Teflon)-coated container that resists material buildup and makes cleanup significantly easier. This non-stick coating also helps reduce material waste. The spray gun comes standard with both 1.5mm and 2.0mm stainless steel needles and tips, suitable for a range of finishes. The 1.5mm needle, which I use 90% of the time, sprays a finer, smoother finish, which makes it a good choice for base coats and some clear coats. The 2mm needle sprays a thicker, more robust finish, suitable for primers and thicker clear coats. A 2.5mm set is also available.
The gun’s “Push N Click” system allows you to quickly adjust the spray pattern between horizontal, vertical and circular configurations. A paint volume control dial gives you excellent control over material output. A viscosity cup is also included, allowing you to measure and thin your finish to the ideal consistency for spraying. Another handy feature is the Quick-Lock cup removal, which makes refilling and cleanup faster and easier.
The Earlex 5700 is compatible with a wide range of finishes, including urethane, varnish, oils, stains, water-based lacquers, enamels, and even thinned latex paints.
Performance
If you’re new to HVLP systems, I highly recommend practicing on scrap material — MDF, plywood or even cardboard — before tackling a finished project. Spraying isn’t difficult, but it does take some practice to develop proper technique and avoid runs or uneven coverage. It’s also worth noting that you should always test the viscosity of your finish using a viscosity cup. This simple step helps ensure you choose the right needle and tip for the job.
In my tests, I used the Earlex 5700 to spray water-based polyurethane, a common choice for hobbyist projects. I strained the polyurethane before spraying. If you’re going to be spraying latex paint you might want to dilute the paint with approximately 10% distilled water (about 12 ounces per gallon).
The results were impressive. The Earlex delivered a finely atomized, consistent spray, producing a flat, even, ultra-smooth finish — far superior, and much quicker, to what I typically achieve with a brush. Overspray was minimal, which is a huge plus for indoor or enclosed workspaces.
One concern I had was the friction-fit hose connection to the spray gun; I expected it might loosen during use. However, it held firm throughout. Like most HVLP units, the 5700 does generate some noise, but I found it to be noticeably quieter than my dust extractor. That said, I still wore hearing protection while spraying (and a respirator).
Cleaning the unit takes about as much time as spraying itself — so don’t skip this step. While not difficult, it is a bit time-consuming. However, thorough cleaning is essential to keeping the system in good working order.
If, like me, you only spray occasionally — perhaps once or twice a month — you don’t need a dedicated, heavy-duty spray booth. A simple, quick-to-assemble booth made from cardboard works beautifully. I use one large box for the sides and back, then cut a second box into two panels — one for the top and one for the base. The result is sturdy enough to handle repeated use, surprisingly durable, and best of all, completely free. You could also use a sheet of 1/2″ rigid foam insulation.
Conclusion
The Earlex 5700 Spray Station is a well-designed, budget-friendly HVLP system ideal for small to medium-scale finishing projects. It combines solid power and precision with a range of useful features, all while remaining accessible to non-professionals. As long as you take the time to properly prepare your materials and finishes, the Earlex 5700 can deliver professional-looking results without breaking the bank.
Tip: Wagner has an excellent instructional video on how to use and clean the Earlex 5700 — I recommend watching it before your first use.
