Richard,
No argument here... I have made a lot of initial assumptions about what I think I want. That has been the way I have researched just about every major tool purchase I’ve made. Sometimes my initial assumptions are right, sometimes not. If I don’t like woodturning, then I’ll chalk the purchase up to a lesson learned. That is one reason why, while I may be looking at and considering higher end lathes, I will most likely end up with a quality, but not top of the line midi size. But, I’m ruling out very few options at this time.
My hand/eye coordination is pretty decent and I’ve got a bit of artistic blood. I guess we’ll see if it’s enough to qualify me to own a lathe. I mean... since all I’ve done so far is slide wood along a fence...
You’re right, and I do need to keep in mind that I will likely spend a fair amount of time for a while making smaller items and building up some skill and confidence. A midi would suit me better for that. I guess I am guilty of trying to get a one size fits all machine - although I know from everything I’ve read that likely that won’t be reality.
Thanks once again for all the food for thought. I’m really looking forward to talking to some folks face to face and getting a chance to actually try my hand on a lathe before I pull the trigger. Everyone’s input and advice helps me know even more what to ask and look for.
Dean