I have the "old" Ridgid and like it a lot. It's been ages since I used the belt sanding accessory but the Spindle sanders do the job. I looked at a number of models before getting the Ridgid, including Jet. I have never regretted the Ridgid purchase. Like was stated in another reply, I use a stationary disk sander more than the belt type but I also have the 1x30 belt sander for times when neither the spindle nor disk works to my advantage. And while I'm on that subject, my 1x30 is an older Harbor Freight model and I would not recommend it. Go with the Rikon or Grizzly models. The HF version will not get the belt centered on the wheels and so using both front sides of the belt doesn't work. Anyway, I like the old style Ridgid and not really sure how the "new" model will actually be an improvement.