Looking at the ad for this saw it appears that it has an induction motor (No brushes) This is a good thing for durability in cutting thicker wood. (1/2" or thicker) That is why it is a two speed saw. A speed controller will ruin an induction motor. Consistently cutting thicker woods will kill a DeWalt in short order. Mine lasted less than two years.
I agree, reaching back the 24" to adjust the tension would be a pain. Especially if you are doing a lot of blade connections like when doing fretwork.