which lathe to buy

[wizical]

hey everyone, i am looking into upgrading my lathe. I have narrowed it down to two choices, it is between the Powermatic 3520b or the NOVA DVR-XP. any opinions and if anyone owns these lathes, let me know what u think. thanks

 

[alamocdc]

Keven, you'll get varying answers here b/c a number of us have these lathes. My research caused me to buy the Mustard and I haven't looked back since. Haven't regretted it either. Great lathe! One of the biggest factors in my decision was the weight. The heavier the better b/c of stability in turning large out-of-balance pieces. Of course, w/the right base, the DVR could probably do as well, but the PM came w/a heavy, very sturdy base. I have heard a few DVR owners mention that if they upgraded, they'd go w/the PM.

 

[wizical]

that is what i want to know, I have done some research and what it cost to get started with the nova DVR, i can buy the powermatic, and the powermatic just got rave reviews. I have been sticking with smaller pieces and usually dont go with out of balance pieces.

 

[thewishman]

There is a review of those and other lathes in that price range in last month's Fine Woodworking. Powermatic was top overall and the Nova 1624-44 was best value.

Hope your shop matches the mustard color, or you might have to redecorate.[]

Chris

 

[Blind_Squirrel]

I can't speak to the Powermatic, but I can to the Nova. I have one and LOVE it!! Computer controlled, no belts, QUIET, the list goes on and on.

 

[Dario]

Most people buy their lathe (or anything for that matter) because they believe it offers the best value so there will be biased opinions here...mine included.

I bought a PM3520B and believe it is the best in its price range (please note it is qualified and I didn't say the best).

If you do a survey on WoodNet or SawMillCreek you will get a good picture on how many owns/chose the Nova DVR vs PM3520B. People choose one product for a reason and I believe the number of sales/owners means a lot (at least to me).

Either way, both lathes are good and you won't be disappointed with any of them.

 

[wizical]

I truly appreciate the feedback, i also have to take into consideration space and probably will go with the NOVA

 

[redfishsc]

I only have a Delta midi, not anything to brag about. But if I were to pick between the two, I would personally go with either the Nova DVR-XP (for nice features like the direct-drive motor and other widgets) or keep my eye open for USED versions of either machine.

You really won't go wrong either way. Both have an impeccable reputation.

BTW, if you can buy either lathe locally for a reasonable price, do so. For various reasons I prefer to deal with local guys when possible (except when buying pen kits, lol, then my buck goes to Ernie, Bill, and CSA).

 

[woodbutcher]

I have the PM 4 yrs and can readily recommend it to anyone. The largest piece on it so far was in excess of 60 lb and was no problem. I also turn pens on it.

 

[Dario]

If you need smaller footprint then Nova is the one for you.

That said I won't stop LOL.

Watch this video/review
http://www.taunton.com/finewoodworking/ToolGuide/ToolGuideArticle.aspx?id=28509

A thread I posted for Billy
http://aawforum.org/vbforum/showthread.php?t=3067

Another review
http://www.newwoodworker.com/reviews/pm3520brvu.html

Other interesting reading
http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=50601
http://www.aawforum.org//vbforum/showthread.php?t=617

 

[Chuck Key]

The Delta is $149.00 with free shipping on eBay. The PM 3520 is selling for $2506.07 plus $149.00 shipping charges on Amazon. It all boils down to where you want to spend you $149.00 []

Chuckie

 

[wizical]

thanks everyone for your advice, it has given me what i need to point me in the right direction. thanks

 

[BernieW]

Kevin I got the Nova DVR for it's smaller foot print and it fit my shop. That said it is a great lathe. Like someone else said it is quiet and has plenty of power.