I'm still spindle turning on a teknatool TL1000 that I modified by putting a 1.8 metre bar for the bed.
Longer would be better as I do the odd post for staircases and verandah post.
But its been good for all other furniture turnings.
I did spend the money and got custom toolrests made 400, 500, 800, 1000 and 1200 mm long, all double posts.
I also have 3 toolrest stocks ( banjos).
It's still a manual belt change but is fine for spindle turning for me.