My feelings on the fixed base vs plunge router is that you need both. Plunge routers are for sure the best tool for doing a deep mortise where you need to make multiple cuts, but will never be as stable as a fixed base. On plunge routers the motor typically slides on rails that are attached to the base. When you lock the motor in place, it only clamps on to one rail. Even the best plunge routers have some movement. This can cause it to be "grabby", and more prone to tear-outs. A good fixed base router is much more stable. I also find it awkward using a plunge base where it's not necessary. The handles are far out to the sides, and they're larger and heavier.
I don't even know how many different routers I own. I would have to go count them. Some of them I've had over 30 years. I have four that are just for trimming plastic laminate. I've always liked Porter Cable. That's what my Dad, and Grandfather both used. I've put a lot of miles on Model 100's. They'll remain my favorite fixed base router. Powerful, well balanced, and easy to
control. They have made the same model forever. I have two nice ones, and remnants of a few others I've also had very good luck with what's now known as the Dewalt DW610. It's another that's been around in the same form for nearly forever. They're a real workhorse, solid as a rock. They are
the standard of the industry for production door machines. Manufactured to run all day long. Day after day. I've got a couple of these, and a few broken ones.
For my recommendation I have to agree with Brother Chili The Ryobi plunge router on this page>
Search Results for*ryobi router*at The Home Depot is a pretty good all around tool, and a decent value. I've got one, and it seems to be holding up well. The electronic speed control, and soft start are excellent features. This one will handle everything that you would need to do, but for very precise operations such as cutting a pickguard from a template, or a binding channel, I prefer a fixed base.
Other notes;
I'll always remove most of the material with a forstner bit before routing. Using a hand drill is fine as long as you're careful.
3/4" is IMO way too thick for templates. I like 3/8's. The thick template will limit the depth you can go with the router.
DON'T buy router bits from stewmac. They're way overpriced.
I'd also avoid stewmac's template system.
Buy a set of "router template bushings" muttley referred to these earlier as "Top Hats">
9 Piece Router Template Guide Set
Router's are a great tool, but they can destroy your work piece in an instant if you're not careful. There's a lot of technique that you can only learn with experience. Don't try to take too much with one cut, protect your eyes, and keep both hands on the tool.