Like the title says , I am building a CNC lathe and am now looking for a controler that is good and won't rape my wallet . any and all input is welcome
When I upgraded my Sherline I used Xylotex drivers. They have only three-axis driver boxes, but I only used two of the outlets. They're reasonably priced and work great.
G540 is $250ish. It includes two drivers that you won't use, but I expect that the other quality options aren't that much cheaper by the time you include a breakout board.
You might also watch for used ones. I see them float by on Craigslist from time to time. I just sold an older SuperTech controller ready to go (power supply, relay board, 3 axis) to a local person for $75. It was not as good as a G540 and only did half-stepping instead of micro-stepping, but it was reliable. Those deals are out there.
Won't a 3rd axis eventually be useful for the tailstock? Or do most smaller CNC lathes not have a powered tailstock and use the toolholder for holding drills?
Power input module has the IEC connector for the power cord, a power switch, and a fuse. You can have 1 to three separate items for this. You could just have a power cord going straight to the power supply, but I wouldn't recommend it unless your power supply has a power switch and fuse integrated.