I have only built one machine from scratch and it is mentioned in this thread
https://www.cnczone.com/forums/diy-c...-software.html .It was a learning tool for me as I have programmed and operated four commercial machines,a couple of them 5 axis,and liked the idea of having some of the same capability for my hobby workshop.I didn't intend to build a huge and rugged machine until I was satisfied that i had the ability to make a machine move correctly.Now I have a working tiny machine, I have to admit to a hankering for something a bit bigger.
If I do build another it will probably have supported round rail and a proper spindle,rather than a router for reasons of noise and power.I would stick with Chinese ballscrews and would prefer my steppers to have a larger shaft than the current version's 1/4 inch although they have ample torque.