power supply options

Hello,

I am in the process of piecing together the components for a home
brew CNC retrofit to a Smithy 1220 machine. I've acquired Gecko 201
drivers (thanks Tim!) and have some StepSyn stepper motors on the
way. The motors are rated at 150 oz/in, 5.1 volts. 1.4 amps. I do
realize that 150 oz motors are considered marginal for a 3-n-1. If I
decide I like the CNC setup, I will probably upgrade to larger motors
in the future.

Now I am looking at power supply options, but I don't really know
what's best. I know I need to run them at a higher voltage than the
rated 5.1 volts. I think something around 40 volts would be nice.
I've found several power supplies in the 48 volt range with plenty of
wattage, but I've found even more supplies in the 24 volt range for
less money.

If I could get one 48 volt, 6 amp supply for a price, or get three 24
volt, 3 amp supplies for the same price, which would be the better
option? How much of a difference in performance does a jump from 24v
to 48v usually make on average for step motors like these? Is there
any advantage to having a separate supply for each motor?

TIA,
-Mike