I've got a little nova and have found it to be more than adequate for anything I can fit on my Mini (up to about 10lb in some cases). I do use a homemade spindle/bowl steady for anything large but that is mostly to prevent vibration. I've got a new, much larger lathe and will be getting supernova or Talon to go with it, as I'll be doing the 50lb+ hunka, hunka turnin wood.
Only gripe is that, when you tighten it real hard, the lever holes begin to bend out. Had to make new levers that fit more snugly.
IMHO,
Dietrich