symtec 1500 help

Hi,

I'm new to wood lathes and have started browsing the market for a lathe. There is a Symtec 1500 for sale nearby and I have done a bit of research and I am aware the company haven't been around for some time.

Are they worth buying still? and if so, how much would you pay.

Do you have any recommendations for beginner lathes?

Unfortunately I can not find anyone local who knows a bit about wood lathes that can help me out. I have only started asking around but I am not having much luck at all.

Any information would be appreciated :)

Symtec have a cult following, they are not for most woodturners, personally I would look for a older Woodfast, Tough or similar.

Thanks for that.
What about buying new? Any brands you could recommend?

Low budget Woodfast although bare in mind they are not the original Woodfast, high budget Vicmarc Australian made and the only lathe you will ever need.

I think an older made in AU Woodfast, well used, even ugly, in good working order is the best value. Mine below. Short bed 20 inch swing bowl lathe. They made long bed and 16 inch swing in the same era. Lovely lathe. That quality sells in the range of $2000 today.