Mark,
I bought the Makita 12" planer last year and have no complaints. It is a solid tool, leaves an excellent finish, was set up accurately out of the box, incredibly quick to change knives, very long cord (unless you run over it). We've planed oak, southern yellow pine, cypress, walnut, and maple with excellent results. I recommend it.
Out of curiosity, why the Mafell saw? I am somewhat familiar with the German saw technology and have never wanted one. They seem too bulky and over-engineered (too many features I don't need) for a circular saw. What are you using now? I use a Bigfoot 10 1/4" and a Makita 16" and am pleased with both. Maybe someone has a German saw they couldn't live without and will give us the lowdown.
Gabel Holder
