My 18" Jet came with what they called Euro guides which are essentially
large, round friction pads which are allowed to rotate and reduce wear. I
was predisposed to learning to use the saw with those and then upgrading to
rollers like the Carters. After using the stock guides for a year or so I
just forgot it. I can't see spending another $150 on guides that will
provide marginal improvement and more maintenance.

If I was into doing bandsaw projects day-in and day-out I might feel
differently.