I have owned a Smithy for years.It is great for what it is.The table does not have to move up or down,you move the head up or down.I have made lots of little parts with it.It does not take up much room,and while we all can find free lathes to bring home and set up,you can set this on a bench,make the minor fine tuning adjustments as shown in the manual,plug it in and use it.I bought a scratch and dent sale one,and have never regretted it.