I've been beta testing Centroid's new step and direction 4 axis motion controller and software.
It's currently at $265 for the hardware and software from the same manufacturer. It has a true spindle encoder port. Ethernet based.
I'm hoping to build a CNC router/plasma cutter table (if that's possible?) and plan on using Acorn.
I've got 2 benchtop mills running on Acorn and an Emcoturn 120 lathe. Router build is planned.
It also has a DB25 port pin compatible with the Gecko G540. All 3 of my machines are currently running on G540's plugged into Acorn.

More info on Acorn can be found here:
Acorn CNC controller, Step and Direction 4 axis CNC Control board with ethernet communication.

You can visit and ask questions on their user forums:
[url=http://centroidcncforum.com/viewforum.php?f=60 Centroid Community CNC Support Forum - Centroid Community CNC Support Forum[/url]

Industrial class motion Controller hardware and software from the same company now available to the step and direction market. Centroid has been doing it for over 30 years.

Marty