Replacement fibre router / modem unit.

[#1]

I am currently on plusnet's FTTC plan, basic 40/20mb package and the cabinet is less than 200 metres away ( actually right outside my boundary but the line from there follows a long route to the house itself.
I have always had intermittent drop out of signal and as I stream radio all day while working this is pretty obvious every time it happens. A lot of the time it is just the streaming service that hangs ( emails / other websites will work) but mostly the BT Openreach Modem wil lose it's DSL light and come back in anything from a few seconds to a few minutes. Also the Plusnet provided Thompson router will lose all lights except power then goes through it's initiation phase or whatever until it reconnects.
As I have had a lot of issues with broadband connectivity over the years from several providers and at several premises I owned and / or worked in I know what to test before contacting Plusnet so that I can eliminate a lot of problems myself if  possible.
I am currently considering buying a spare router / modem in a single unit so at least I have a test unit rather than try to obtain one when there is a big problem. Is there a particular type I should consider ?
Also is it a different process to set up from the standard broadband. I always used to just connect the router, go to the interface put in the *****@plusdsl and password then just let it connect itself. Is it different with the fibre routers and do I need to obtain these details from Plusnet ?
Sorry for a lot of questions but any input would be appreciated.
H.
I

[#2]

OK, I just saw NorthEasterner's posting and that answers some of the points.
Cheers.
H.

[#3]

Useful list of combined VDSL modem/routers here: http://forum.kitz.co.uk/index.php/topic,14436.0.html
Some need no specific configuration other than the Plusnet DSL username and password (manufacturers already put the correct defauts in), others need specific settings for UK FTTC - if you need to know settings for a specific one (once you choose) just ask as there's a good chance someone on here will know.

[#4]

Thanks. Will have a look through those on the weekend.
H.