I read/replied on another forum someone wanting to upgrade from a midi lathe to a newer model Grizzly offering the G0838, which is a 16" lathe. I looked at it and to me the leg castings are pretty small/light for my tastes. I mentioned to the guy that the G0766 would be a better choice, given more swing, more horsepower, more weight, and only a little larger footprint and about $700 in price difference. I realize some folks don't want a truly big lathe, but the best value out there is the G0766, and if you do need the occasional capacity, the 0766 surely fits the bill! I think newbies ought to research things, and it seems this guy was at least asking on the AAW forum, so that is a good thing. With all the upgrades they have made to the 0766, it should be ready to go out of the crate. I'm not sure about the spindle boss at this point in manufacture as it relates to all chucks, but such an easy modification if it is needed.
