In reading up on bandsaws I noticed that some large saws, particuarly the Tannewitz GHE have very high blade speeds (8400 sfm) while other saws have a blade speed more in the 5000 sfm range.

Does an individual (non-production) person really need a bandsaw going that fast? Where does that kind of speed help?

For resawing, does one need a slower blade speed?

Can I use a frequency drive on a 3ph direct drive bandsaw?

Just for comparison (ha) how fast is the blade speed on a 12" Craftsman bandsaw from the 1970's? How about a WoodMizer? (LT40).

Thanks,
Rob