The Nova 1624-44 lathe was among seven heavy-duty lathes I tested ranging in price from $1,200 to $3,200. I measured each for ease of speed control, vibration, lathe movement, power, tool-rest design, and ease of adjustment for outboard turning. I also evaluated the tailstocks and live centers, and tested how each lathe performed both on small and large workpieces.

The is an excellent basic lathe and my choice for best value. It is nearly identical to the Nova DVR-XP except for the headstock and drive mechanism. Rather than electronic-variable speed, the 1624-44 changes speed with an eight-step pulley system. With the stock base, the Nova DVR can be jumpy when working with a large, out-of-balance bowl. However, it performed much better with an extra 250 lb. in sand bags added to the base. Nova provides plans for a bench that accommodates this extra weight.

The Nova 16224-44 had no significant speed loss during our power tests. The tool rest showed no measurable movement. And its rotating headstock for outboard turning was among the best in its class. The Nova lathes also offer a beefy bolt-on outrigger to hold the tool rest.

The Nova 1624-44 is the best value at $1,200, which includes a bed extension. Its simple step-pulley design should deliver years of trouble-free operation.

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