I'm a relative newby, been turning for about a year and slowly getting a little better. I'm working on a used Rockwell 11" lathe (Model 46-140) that I bought from an experienced woodturner who was moving up. Now I think I'm ready to move up, at least to something with some more modern conveniences.
Can you point me to any review(s) of mid-priced lathes, which for this purpose, I'll define as between $800 and about $1500. I would like a full size lathe with electronic speedcontrol that doesn't require rewiring the shop, i.e., stay at 110V, which I think limits it to about 1.5 hp. Everything else I think will be pretty standard everywhere, like lever locks for the tool rest support (mine uses a wrench, and I have only scraped knuckles once or twice), Morse #2 tapers, reasonable weight or the capacity to take a shelf for sand bags.
I've searched and found a review from this price range on up, in FWW, but I haven't been able to find anything comparing lathes in this price range.
Individual reccomendations on ones to look at, or avoid, will also be very welcomed.
I think I am currently attracted to a Jet 1642 with the 1.5 hp motor.
I'm still experimenting and finding out what I can turn successfully. I am working on bowls (of course) of various sizes, including miniatures (for my wife's collection of miniatures), lidded boxes, goblets, small vases, etc. I want to buy one lathe to last me indefinitely and don't want to limit my options.
Thanks.
George