Hi Ryan,
I opted for the "poor mans DRO"on the X axis of my lathe. I made up a simple clamp that allow me to use a 2" dial indicator against the carriage to measure travel. Cheap and easy to install/remove as needed. No batteries to wear out and no electrical interference. Granted, it's only 2" of travel, but it's easily adjusted and seems to be adequate for most jobs I do.
