need a lathe I won't outgrow

The Nova DVR is a good choice and just about all that's available for under two grand that meets your specs. For a little more (around $2300) you could get a PowerMatic 3520.

Peter Teubel Milford, MA

I have a Oneway 24X36. About 5 grand, I would look at the Vicmarcks. For the money, you get an awful lot of lathe. Be sure to get a large motor, variable speed, and a reverse.

Lewis

I'll "ditto" on the DVR if you budget is a "hard" $2k. It gives you

16" of swing over bed. The Jet 1642 is a $2k lathe and gives you 16" of swing. If you would like 16" but want to stay under $2k and have money left over for chucks and tools, you may want to consider the Nova 3000. There are many users who have been using the Nova 3000 for many years and remain satisfied. Since it appears that there are 2 lathe alternatives in your price range, I'd recommend that you log on to the MSN Nova Owner Forum and ask them for feedback. Good luck! Larry

Hello, A few questions first. Think how much is "around" $2000 to you? Is that your budget for the lathe only or for lathe and goodies? Are you willing to build a base and supply your own motor? Or do you want a "turn key" lathe? How big a swing and how long a distance between centers? Do you have a store nearby where you can purchase or will you have to ship (heavy toys).These factors will all greatly affect what lathe you can get get for a particular price point. As for outgrowing it if the equipment is good quality and all you really turn fits the lathe you are good to go. For under $1000 you can get a Nova 3000 with a 1HP motor (supply your own base). For just under $2000 a Nova DVR or Jet 1642. For mid-2000 range, a Powermatic 3520A from Osolnik. Also in these ranges are the Vicmarcs in their various incarnations. If you want to just do some stuff for craft shows maybe a mini like the Jet or mini Nova. Small investment and if you end up wanting more a mini lathe is nice to keep around or it will be pretty easy to sell. What did I do? I started with a Craftsman and it lasted about a month before the motor quit. Next was a Nova 3000, sweet all around lathe. I'm selling it though because I now have a Vicmarc VL300 (Christmas present), quite a monster. I'm selling the Nova because I really don't have room for two lathes in the garage. If I had the room, I'd keep it. Whatever you choose, have fun and be safe!! Guy

Thanks a lot guys, after doin a good bit of readin on the novas, I think I'm gonna get the nova dvr.

Much thanks for the info jack