sherryt1258

I have been lurking on these boards for over a year and finally decided to join. Have learned so much from you fine quilters!! I am ready to buy a long arm. Trying to decide between two 18" machines--the Hq Avante and the new Pfaff Power Quilter/Husqvarna Viking Platinum(made by same company). Would value any opinions you have of either machines. I like that I can set the frame up in different lengths (if I understand it correctly). Inquired about a used Innova 18 but was told the machine would have to stay in the 12' length. The HQ Avante is at Texas Quilt Machines over by Houston(quiltfrog.com) Would also get a two day longarm retreat to learn to use the machine which is nice. The other is from sewingmachinesplus and would be over the internet purchase. Thanks for your help!

Candace

I didn't even know Pfaff/Viking/Singer had come out with a new longarm.

AliKat

I prefer the HQ and the computer abilties. I love the Art & Stitch program and the tracks on the HQ are so much better than anything else I have seen.

I have the older HQ16 and would gladly upgrade if I could afford it.

ali

pjustice63

I just bought Avante. Had full day training on Tuesday. I think it is awesome.
Will need more training as time goes by but so far I love it.
Don't know anything about other machine. Didn't know they made one with 18 inch arm.

alleyoop1

I have a Bernina quilting frame and it is adjustable from 12' to 6' but in order to make it smaller it would require that I almost take the whole frame apart. So I leave it set up in the 12' size. So, if you are buying a frame that is adjustable, check out how you adjust it. It might be so much work you too will leave it set up in the larger size.

lfletcher

The HQ has been around longer so any problems have probably been solved by now. It's like buying a car. I was told never to buy a model the first year it comes out. Let them work out the bugs and then buy it in the next year or two. Quilting classes are very valuable in my opinion so that is another reason to favor the HQ.

QuiltNama

Love my HQ. It can take the computer if you so choose and their customer service is outstanding.

PaperPrincess

I think the new Viking one is still made by Tin Lizzie. I have the previous viking/lizzie and have been very pleased. I purchased mine used from a Viking Dealer and had them set it up in my home. It was an additional expense, but I think it was worth it. They made sure that it was balanced and everything was working OK and I did a small sample square. I like mine, but would have been leery of making a purchase this expensive and complex online. Dealer support is important.

Annaquilts

I would take the HQ Avante between those two. I looked at HQ Fusion with computer and almost got it but ended up with the Innova 26 with no computer. I personally would choose the Innova over the HQ but it came in a good second with me. I know so many people who enjoy the Avante. You'll have so much fun. Congratulations either way you decide.

One of the key factors for me was how light the Innova was to operate. Be sure you spend a lot of time doing some actual quilting. Also note I opted for a 26 inch opening so it might not factor in for you since you are looking at the Avante. The HQ Fusion 24 inch is heavier then the HQ Avante 18 in. If you plan to add a computer the HQ is the way to go because of the cost of their computer is lower versus the cost of the computer on the Innova.

Annaquilts

Yes, I came to the same conclusion.
Also I felt a non adjustable frame was stronger.