ok so think the time has come....

GRBL looks like a cheap option but if I am going to start playing around with arduino or ESP then LinuxCNC would seem like the better option and Mesa controllers are an interesting option comparing cost of controllers and isolated breakout boards the Mesa cards are similar in cost.

I am currently downloading the LinuxCNC live iso and will spend today having a look at how much fun its going to be....

I don't know how this will go and looking at the LinuxCNC forum and WIKI I am not confident but its only fair to give it a go.

wish me luck lol