I have an old craftsman that was my dads. I haven't used it enough to know anything but I do like it and will keep it until I feel I need an upgrade. My next step would be a Jet. A big upgrade for me right now would be turning tools. They can cost more than what makes the wood spin and from what I gather makes a huge difference. Or go all out and get a machine lathe. Don't forget to consider used. Well made used tools can be real gems for the price.