I want to get a Janome 6600 but don't live near a dealer. I would consider buying from a dealer online. For anyone who has bought a machine online , do you send it away to the dealer to be serviced and have you had problems doing that? There is no sew/vac shop in my town and Joann's doesn't service computerized machines if they arent Singer. Any feedback would be appreciated.

Are you near Punxsutawney? Is there still a dealer there? I looked on the Janome website, and that's the closest one I see in your area...you probably know that already, tho. :-D

I am about 40 minutes away so will probably check them out.

Sharon - I don't have an answer for your question, but I grew up in Indiana. Graduated from IHS in 1994. :)

Hey there. My daughters graduated from IHS in 89, 93. 95, and 97. :)

I bought my ULT2003 online. None of the local shops would honor the warranty (none were Brother dealers), so I bought a 3 year service contract from a sew/vac about 40 minutes away for the same price it would have cost me to have the machine serviced once a year for three years. Biggest deal was the service contract covered labor and parts. Just before the contract ran out, they put almost $300 in parts in the machine, which paid for the entire service contract. I, of course, renewed the contract and keep it current. Has worked out great. I normally don't like service contracts, but with these computerized machines, they need servicing and the contract has worked great for me.

If you've got a dealer 40 mins. away, I'd start there. My dealer is about that far and it'll save you a lot of grief later on when you need service and support.

I considered buying a machine on line. I wound up buying my Janome from a quilt shop (20 miles away) that carries Janome and Bernina. The shop is a reputable shop, and I have the service right there when I need it.
I don't advise buying on line. For peace of mind, and the economy of your area, consider your local merchant.

I bought 2 Juki TL98QE sewing machines online from 2 different places. The Authorized serice guy doesn't know what he is doing, I just pay a sew and vac place to service the 1.

Personally, I would never make that kind of purchase online. If you do have a shop within driving distance you really are better off. They will be there for you when you need repairs/cleaning, and advice with any problems. Besides that you can see accessories available to start your wish list for different feet and other accessories.
If it's a long drive, call ahead, make sure they have one in stock and are willing to take some time with you that day to show you how to use and care for it!