CNC Newbie

Hi, guys I am thinking of joining your world.
I have an RF-45 ,mill drill that I am currently adding some Thomason
ballscrews to. They are .631 " with the anti-backlash nuts. The
machine is manual with a possible CNC future. I have some books on
the suject on the way, but this board is more hobby based, so here
goes.

I will be designing a simple brake system for manual mode. I would
eventually like a dual purpose machine if possible. I currently have
those cheap linear scale DRO's on the machine now.

Now for the Q's.

Which is the best setup to go for? I have a set of stepper motors ,
Eastern Air devices model type LA34CKK. I think they are 620 Oz/in at
around 10 Amp! These steppers were free! I know about steppers
missing steps and they have good stall torque characteristics. I was
thinking of using feed back using say US Digital' E6D encoders on the
ballscrew ends. Or do I spring for a servo system? I have no idea
what is the best affordable servo system to go for. I know certain
servo type systems are out of this world.

I am guessing that a belt drive system is propably best for a dual
purpose machine? Any suggestions?

Jason