I wouldn't be to quick to purchase a new Jet lathe, I would like for them to be in service for a while before buying one. If possible, could you purchase a used lathe to get by with. Something that doesn't cost to much, one that you won't mind giving up when you find the brand your looking for. Onr thing I don't like about the new Jet scroll saw, is that they have the lower blade clamp section that gets attached separetely. You can't just grab a blade and clamp it in place, you first have to attach the bottom section. To me, that would be a royal PITA, and I wouldn't want to own any saw that works that way.
Len