You told me most of what I was wondering. One thing I have not gotten a
good answer on is what is it's lowest speed? I have heard/deduced that
around 700 rpms is typical for other j-line models. So does that sound
about right? I want something slower but otherwise I like what I am
hearing about this lathe.I will be turning lots of large unbalanced
blanks so slower speeds are essential.

The one I am looking at has a 3 phase motor and I am seriously
considering just adding a VF Drive to it. Program it for say 3 fixed
speeds on the motor and using the lathes variable speed control. Does
that sound feasible? Or would it be better to just go full electronic
speed control and skip the reves drive?

Once I get it in the shop and torn apart that will really help me decide.