New Delta Midi is finally out . . .

[waltben]

Here's the link: http://www.deltaportercable.com/lathes/midi_lathe.html

I've had a pre-production variable speed model for a year and have taken it to several club meets, the Virginia Symposium and demonstrated with it at several art shows. Although I can't tell you who has them for sale yet, if you're looking for a smallish lathe powerful enough to turn bowls on, this is it!

 

[Rob Wallace]

Hi Walt!

So can you tell us how this lathe compares to the Jet 1220 (standard or variable speed models) with which, I assume, it is to compete??

Does anybody know about how the prices will differ on these...?? Will Delta attempt to undercut Jet's price on their 12" lathe?

Now that I just sold an essentially new Delta Midi (LA200) and have a brand new Jet 1220 ordered and on the way, I'm just curious at how Delta is responding to WMH's (Jet) introduction of the 1220 by putting out this new 12" lathe .....

I hope the new Delta lathe will be of somewhat better quality than the LA200....

Thanks,

Rob Wallace

 

[hockenbery]

Rob,
The goal is a variable speed mini that goes close to 0 rpm.

The current lot of minis all bottom out around 500rpm too fast for out of balance work, sanding and thread chasing.

The problem manufactures face: how to put $5-800 worth of electronics on a lathe and sell it for $350.

Maybe Delta has done it. So far it has been like Vaporware in the software industry. General said they were doing it.

Unless you go to the Small Oneway of Vic 100 you don't get variable speed with much torque or low speed capability

Al

 

[mdwine]

I've had a pre-production variable speed model for a year. . .

Hi Walt!!

I hope I get to see this puppy some time. I really like the reverse feature.

I'll let you know about next week! 😀

Have a good'n!

 

[john lucas]

I asked the Delta rep about slow speed and he told me they (meaning everyone) had trouble with power at the really slow speeds. You can get it but you sacrifice some other qualities and they felt felt they gave the best of both on the new lathe. In order to get maximum power at the slower speeds you have to put a bigger motor on and this also ads to more money and as everyone knows you have to find a price point for each lathe.
I have seen the new Delta and think it's a great lathe. A little more expensive than some. It will be interesting to do a comparison between the Delta, Jet and new Grizzly 12" mini. Anyone want to send me all 3. I'll put them through the ringer and give my opinions.

 

[Keith Burns]

According to their spec's, it has a 1 HP motor with a low end speed of 250 rpm. The Jet has a 3/4 HP motor with a low end speed of 270 rpm I beleive.

 

[Rick H]

Delta

It seems to have plenty of power at the slower speeds. The variable seems to have more power at the lower speeds. Yes, the reverse feature is nice. Both are fine lathes, I have been testing both of them too.
I have turned 11 1/2" X 7" bowl blanks on it without any problems on both lathes.
I also have a Jet 1642 lathe and it seems to have as much power for it's size as my Jet. To me if the wood will fit on the lathe the lathe can handle it without a power problem.

 

[hockenbery]

Rick,

The pictures seem to show the speed control on the outboard side behind the hand wheel and the on off switch on the top back of the headstock.

Were these easy to use while turning an 11 inch bowl?

Is that box movable?



thanks,
Al

 

[Rick H]

Delta

The controls are mounted permanet in that location. I found reaching up with the left hand to be no problem using the controls. I actually like the fact they are up top so you know, and see, right where they are without having to think about where they are.

 

[George Guadiane]

According to their spec's, it has a 1 HP motor with a low end speed of 250 rpm. The Jet has a 3/4 HP motor with a low end speed of 270 rpm I beleive.

And I don't think that the Jet has a reverse feature, something I really value.

 

[Aaron G+11]

Last I checked the jet does not have reverse, but there was some one who put out plans to put one in. I know several who have done it with out any ill effect.