Variable speed for pen turning.

I am wanting a variable speed lathe for my pen turning for the convenience.

I currently have a lathe with a 5 step pulley speed system, with means a few belt/speed changes for turning each pen.



I use 1800rpm for turning and sanding, then change to 600rpm for applying a CA finish.

I have looked at the Nova Comet II, but the speed ranges don't cover the speeds I use, it would still mean changing the belt, which sort of defeats the purpose of buying another lathe.



How do others get around this problem ?



I have fitted a 3 phase motor and a VFD to my metal lathe, I can get a useable range of about 5rpm to 2000rpm without changing gears.

Are there any reasonable priced midi lathes that can give me a decent speed range so I don't have to change the belt, I don't care if there is not much torque at the lower rpm, I am just turning pens, not bowls.



I could just fit a 3ph motor and VFD to my wood lathe ( Record CL3-48 ), but I would like a newer lathe for my pens, to get away from some of the shortcomings of the Record.