Performax 16/32 here (same a Jet's early model I believe since Jet bought the company)
I change belts all the time.
Rarely use my lunchbox planer any more, just load up with 36 grit to get flat, then step to 80, then 180 to get to final +.005" .
ROS will step back one grit (120) to remove linear scratches, then forward usually to 220 and final dimension.
If I'm using the Cubitron on the ROS I'll go +0.010"

Belt changes are about 30 seconds, no finger access issues.

Have never used the smart sand but it sounds like a win-win.