I found a telescope (Meade DS2102) with a 497 controller locally for less than $150...does anyone know if that scope will come off the mount to convert to hold a DLSR?

The cradle that holds the optical tube is held in place by 4 screws and is easily taken off. To mount a camera you'll have to replace that with an L-bracket (or similar). Telescope Warehouse sell mounts that come with an L-bracket instead of the cradle, perhaps they'll be willing to sell you an L-bracket on its own. Otherwise you'll probably have to make one yourself.

cool thanks.

I may do this- that way if I ever want a telescope as well, its easy to replace. Building my own mount or contacting TW would not be a problem I would guess...after all, its how many on this forum started right?

Yep - if you have a drill already (or could borrow one) a few cheap parts from a local hardware store is all you need. Can easily be done for < $10.