I have a VS lathe and love it. I admit I would never buy one without the VS option, now that I have had one. However, I don't think you especially NEED a VS lathe when just starting out. SOME belts change relatively easily while others are a frustrating handfull. If you want an inexpensive VS lathe, the HF lathe mentioned above is what I have owned for three years and really like it. But I would experiment with what you have for awhile before making an immediate change.
For a DP, I agree that your cheapest route may be to replace the bearings on the unit and see if that solves the problem. If shopping for a new/newer drill press, a lot of things come into the equation. Drilling on the DP is faster than drilling on the lathe, however, most will say the lathe drilling gives you the most accurate result. I like to drill acrylic on the lathe because I can go more slowly...when drilling on the DP I tend to rush, which can melt the acrylic. (that just might be my lack of patience) I drill wood blanks on the DP, which as stated, is faster.
I am not saying all bargain priced drill presses are bad, but some of them lack the precision, hence the lower cost. I would seek the advice of others before making a specific DP purchase.
I hope this helps.
