Brian, regarding the jerkiness. One thing that I noticed about the new software was that each line of code had a feedrate and there were more G0 feeds during my cuts then I was used to. I took all the code in Notepad and replaced all the G0's with G1's. ( under EDIT). This smoothed things out significantly because the G0 is feeding full bore and the G1 is going the slower rate you specify. You may want to try that and experiment. You can also slow the feed down on the screen which you probably know.
I think having the cash flow to start a business and keep it going presents its own set of problems. I'm sure the money that we paid went into the materials for the next machines on the list and the paychecks of those working there. Putting that kind of money out there upfront is unusual in my opinion, because you have nothing to show for your money except a promise. Ebay works like that and you provide feedback. I would think that people who invest their money would be treated with excellent customer service, fast delivery,and good communication from the vendor. Honesty is the best policy in my opinion. I sell product on ebay and have a great feedback rating. In my case, Bill said he would make the machine and he did. He said he would ship it and he did. With the incident of the " setback" , it took a bit longer and I tried not to be a PITA about it. In the end things went OK.
So far I am pretty happy with the machine except for the above mentioned slop in the guides. Apparently the middle wheel is adjustable. I'm waiting for the tech help from the Bishop- Wisecarver folks to get back from vacation to confirm that. At that time I'll go in and adjust them and see if I can get some of the play out of them.