Two of the most widely used premium high-end pottery wheels are the Shimpo Whisper and the Brent C Wheel. Though they satisfy somewhat different demands, both have devoted followers. We decided to break down their main characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages here so you can decide which is better for you so you can get it.
Brent C Wheel: The Industry Workhorse
Made by AMACO, Brent wheels have been around since 1967 and are well-known for their robust resale value, power, and longevity. Schools, community centres, and professional workplaces are abundant with them wherever they go.
Key Features:
- Motor Power: 3/4 HP
- Centering Capacity: 225 lbs (claimed)
- Speed Range: 0-240 RPM
- Weight: ~120 lbs
- Belt-Driven Motor: Strong torque but may develop noise over time
- Warranty: 10 years
- Build Quality: Sturdy frame, reliable foot pedal, and durable splash pan
Pros:
✅ Extremely Durable: Can handle heavy use in shared studios or professional settings
✅ High Centering Capacity: Ideal for throwing large amounts of clay
✅ Strong Resale Value: Brent wheels tend to sell fast in the second-hand market
✅ Excellent Customer Service: AMACO has a long-standing reputation for support
Cons:
❌ Noisy Over Time: Belt-driven system can get loud with wear
❌ Heavy & Bulky: Less portable than some other wheels
❌ Expensive: One of the pricier options on the market
Best For:
- Professional potters who want a long-lasting, high-performance wheel
- Studios & schools needing a durable, high-capacity wheel
- Potters working on large pieces who need extra power
User Feedback:Many potters love the Brent C for its reliability, but some feel the price is high for what you get compared to other wheels.
Shimpo Whisper: The Silent Performer
Shimpo’s Whisper series is famous for being one of the quietest pottery wheels available. It uses a direct-drive motor, which eliminates belts, reducing maintenance and noise.
Key Features:
- Motor Power: 1/2 HP
- Centering Capacity: 100 lbs
- Speed Range: 0-250 RPM
- Weight: ~120 lbs
- Direct-Drive Motor: No belts, extremely quiet
- Warranty: 5 years
- Build Quality: Smooth operation, no vibrations, good foot pedal
Pros:
✅ Ultra-Quiet: The direct-drive motor is nearly silent
✅ Smooth & Vibration-Free: Great for precision work
✅ Minimal Maintenance: No belts to wear out
✅ More Affordable: Slightly cheaper than Brent C
Cons:
❌ Lower Power: 1/2 HP motor may struggle with very large projects
❌ Lower Centering Capacity: 100 lbs vs. Brent’s 225 lbs
❌ Some Users Find It Lacks Torque: Not as powerful as belt-driven models
Best For:
- Potters who prioritize quiet operation (e.g., home studios or shared spaces)
- Those who work on medium-sized pottery projects
- Potters who want a low-maintenance wheel
User Feedback: Many users praise the Shimpo Whisper for being incredibly smooth and silent, but some say it lacks torque compared to the Brent C.
Brent C vs. Shimpo Whisper: Side-by-Side Comparison
|
Feature |
Brent C Wheel |
Shimpo Whisper |
|
Motor Power |
3/4 HP |
1/2 HP |
|
Centering Capacity |
225 lbs |
100 lbs |
|
Drive System |
Belt-Driven |
Direct-Drive |
|
Noise Level |
Can Get Noisy |
Ultra-Quiet |
|
Speed Range |
0-240 RPM |
0-250 RPM |
|
Weight |
~120 lbs |
~120 lbs |
|
Durability |
Extremely Durable |
Long-Lasting but Lighter Build |
|
Warranty |
10 years |
5 years |
|
Best For |
Large projects, studios |
Quiet home studios, medium projects |
Which One Should You Get?
- Choose Brent C if you need power, durability, and high centering capacity for large pieces. It’s a studio workhorse that will last for years.
- Choose Shimpo Whisper if you value a quiet, smooth wheel with minimal maintenance. It’s great for home studios and potters working on medium-sized pieces.
If you’re still unsure, try both wheels at a local pottery studio if possible. The right choice depends on your throwing style, space, and priorities