If you want to turn big platters and such, that lathe is a monster. I've known people who have one and love it. I've turned on one for demos and it was smooth, solid, everything felt like quality. I have a PM 3520b, bought used for $3000 a long time ago - it came with a bed extension and some extras. Has way more power than I need. From the PM web site it looks like the two lathes have the same motor and should be able to handle almost anything.
From the PM web page it appears the "b" model has some added features over the original 4224.
It is a heavy machine, maybe 300lbs more than the 3520b - might need some help getting it moved and set up. I bought the 3520b used, disassembled and hauled it from MD to TN on in a closed trailer. I was able to unload the pieces and move them into the shop and set up the lathe by myself (with help from a floor jack.) Probably couldn't have done that with a 4225b.
I think something to consider is how big a blank you might want to turn. I've turned ~20" platters on the 3520b but never a bowl over about 16", and almost always smaller things. But a big lathe will easily handle smaller things. Even if you had no plans to turn large things at that price, assuming you could get help loading and moving it, I think it is well worth that price. If I verified that it ran well and wasn't covered with rust I'd go buy it this morning before someone else does! If it's been advertised it probably won't last long.
JKJ
