Nova 1624 II 8-Speed Wood Lathe Review: Precision and Power for Woodcraft
Introduction: The Nova 1624 II 8-Speed Wood Lathe is a woodworking masterpiece that delivers precision and power at an affordable price point. As a woodturner, having used a variety of lathes ranging from $500 to $2000, I had the privilege of working with Teknatool’s Nova, and it exceeded my expectations. This lathe retains the groundbreaking features of its predecessor, the Nova 1624, making it an exceptional crafting tool. In this review, we’ll explore the remarkable features and performance that make the Nova 1624 II a standout choice.
Important Note (Nov 2022): Please be aware that the Nova 1624 II has been discontinued as of November 2022. Links in this article will redirect you to Amazon, where you can explore similar wood lathes. For further wood lathe options, you can check out my comprehensive review of the best wood lathes [provide a link].
Specifications:
- 16″ swing and 24″ between the centers
- Motor: 1.5 HP AC motor, 115V, 60Hz
- RPM: 214 – 3,600 RPM (USA/Canada), 178 – 3,000 RPM (rest of the world)
- Variable speed
- Both forward and reverse
- Swivel Head 360°
- Outboard Turning: 29″
- Spindle and tailstock taper: #2MT
- Spindle thread: 1-1/4″ X 8 TPI RH
- Swing over tool rest: 13-1/2″
- Tool rest: 12″
- Weight: 276 lbs
- Warranty: 2 years full replacement on the motor and 5 years on all other parts
Quality Cast Iron Construction: Crafting with wood requires precision and stability. The Nova 1624 II offers an unmatched vibration-free woodturning experience, thanks to its quality cast iron construction. I’ve had my fair share of experiences with lathes, and vibration issues have been a common headache. The Nova 1624 II’s iron cast build, however, positions it as one of the sturdiest lathes on the market. The cam action lever with rubber grips ensures easy and swift adjustments, making it an ergonomic delight.
Powerful Motor: The Nova 1624 II’s built-in motor is a true game-changer. It’s one of the standout features of this lathe and what sets it apart from the competition. While most lathes in its category feature a 1 HP motor, this lathe boasts a powerful 1.5 HP motor – that’s 50% more powerful! The motor’s variable speed control, ranging from 215 to 3600 revolutions per minute, allows for precision, and it automatically locks down the spindle if any issues arise during operation.
Intelligent Computerized Control: The Nova 1624 II takes woodturning to a whole new level with its intelligent computerized control system. This feature simplifies the handling of the lathe, enabling precise and easy woodturning. It assists in various aspects, from determining the weight of your craft to adjusting performance based on your work style. Additionally, it provides guidance and troubleshooting assistance during setup.
Impressive Torque Power: The Nova 1624 II’s built-in motor is equipped with a specification of 1.5 HP/115V, which is characteristic of high-torque motors. This lathe can deliver instant power when needed, making it a perfect choice for a wide range of projects, including larger bowls and extended spindle work.
Safety Shut Off: Safety is paramount when it comes to woodturning. Unlike lathes with no safety regulations, the Nova 1624 II features intelligent sensing that guarantees a 100% fail-safe operation. The built-in computer in the lathe swiftly shuts down power in the event of any detected issues, ensuring a secure woodturning experience.
Power Efficiency: The lathe’s intelligent computer contributes to power efficiency by optimizing the motor’s performance. It’s estimated that the Nova 1624 II can save up to 80% of energy compared to conventional lathes. It uses only the necessary power for the project, making it both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Plug and Play Remote: The Nova 1624 II is incredibly user-friendly. If you’re in the mood for woodturning, simply plug it in, and it’s ready to go without any complicated setup. Unlike other lathes that may require extensive knowledge before you start, the Nova 1624 II is a plug-and-play device. It activates with variable speed control, both forward and reverse options, as soon as it’s plugged in.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can the Nova 1624 handle small projects like bowls and small cups?
- Yes, it’s versatile enough for small projects, offering 8 different speed options to cater to your crafting needs.
- Does the Nova 1624 have reverse thrust capabilities?
- Absolutely, it provides reverse thrust capacities for accurate woodturning.
- What is the power of the lathe’s motor?
- The Nova 1624 II boasts a powerful 1.5 HP motor with a variable speed range from 215 to 3600 RPM.
Final Thoughts: In conclusion, the Nova 1624 II 8-Speed Wood Lathe is a remarkable piece of machinery that incorporates future-proof technologies to enhance your woodturning experience. While woodturning has deep historical roots, the Nova 1624 II leverages advanced technology to make crafting easier and more effective.
This lathe caters to a wide range of needs, from DIY enthusiasts to semi-professionals. However, I won’t make the decision for you; I encourage you to conduct further research, read more articles, seek advice from experienced woodturners, and watch informative videos to make an informed choice. My aim is to assist you in enhancing your research for the perfect wood lathe that aligns with your crafting ambitions. Happy woodturning!
Note (Nov 2022): Please be aware that the Nova 1624 II has been discontinued as of November 2022. Links in this article will redirect you to Amazon, where you can explore similar wood lathes. For further wood lathe options, you can check out my comprehensive review of the best wood lathes [provide a link].