I’ve owned a Nova 2024 for ten years. Five years ago the control board went. One or more drive capacitors blew (really loud bangs). It was out of warranty, took some talking and badgering the folks at technatool, who scrounged a board, well built a board. It took three weeks and about $500, and I had to do the installation. I know that‘s a rather large problem, still otherwise has been great.
I think the dvr system is great. It’s quiet, smooth, and strong. That direct drive motor makes surprising torque at low speeds, responds quickly and efficiently to load changes, and I appreciate the push button speed control, and having a speed readout, even before you push the start button! I know some folks don’t see a need, but I get used to certain speeds, or speed ranges for different size pieces. It’s just another data point, but one I enjoy, like clocks, speedometers and thermometers.
Being a dedicated system makes major things, such as blown motor or control one that only Nova can help with. On the flip side, is there better reliability because it’s a full system? Other manufacturers are building a lathe, the essentially farming the drive to third part suppliers. I read about replacing VFDs and motors, but not Nova drives. Doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen, of course.
