It was filthy when I took it apart before I ever even used it. There was lint and dust in it. When I went to take it back, they refused to take the return, saying it was a "sale" item and that all sales were final when the price was discounted. It would sew a little ... umm ... crooked, I guess you would say. The stitching wasn't even and it would run a little rough. I took it to another dealer and had it serviced, and it worked better, but every once in a while it would have a hiccup and do some weird things - like the embroidery outline would be WAY off, even though it sewed the exact same design five times prior with no issues. It didn't come in a box - but the dealer told me he just unboxed it so it was "easier to carry" and all the parts were there (they were; I checked before I bought it).

I had bad luck with that dealer on the purchase of that machine, and then bad luck with the machine repairman at another shop (never take your machine to someone you once dated, though I had no idea he was still working there). I will go back to where I bought my PC-8500 to purchase my next machine, even though it's no where near convenient for me anymore. I know the people who work there, and I trust them implicitly.

I have the Brother PQ1500S, which you can buy on Amazon for $655. I *looooove* it! (But have no experience on other machines, so I can't compare.) It's a straight stitch machine only, no zigzag stitches. I just finished free-motion quilting a quilt for my stepson with lots of swirls, etc, so "straight stitch only" does not mean no curves, for those who don't know.

Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...wsusanmalle-20

[QUOTE=JenelTX;5624584]I have the Brother PQ1500S, which you can buy on Amazon for $655. I *looooove* it! (But have no experience on other machines, so I can't compare.) It's a straight stitch machine only, no zigzag stitches. I just finished free-motion quilting a quilt for my stepson with lots of swirls, etc, so "straight stitch only" does not mean no curves, for those who don't know.

I agree!!! Love this machine. Easy sewer, wide throat for easier FMQ. Great machine. I only wanted straight stitch since that is realy only what you do with peicing/quiltin. It comes with FM foot and the feet dogs drop for FMQ. Also it has no computer to "mess" up. I has a Singer with all the fancy stitches to use if I need them. I now use my PS1500 for my peicing. I suggest that you go to sewing centers and "test" sew different machine to see which one that you like. I also bought mine on Amazon which is an authorized Brother dealers which should mean that yiou can get your machine services at other dealers. I paid $600 for mine but with free shipping and no sales taxe. I have seen this machine for less on Amazon. You might also check Amazon prices if you chose a different machine. A new machine what fun!!!!!!!

I am currently on my second Brother machine, love them....mine is a Duetta....but I would not hesitate to buy another.....but as I have said many times before your "Dealer Service Center" is so important consider that first, one that you trust and know the people...then what machine brands do they sell....I would not hesitate to buy a used machine....just ask a lot of questions....how old is it, has it been serviced, what is their return policy...what are their warranty and guarantee policies. It is possible to have a machine serviced and not be right, but a good service department will stand behind their work and make it right no matter what....Questions and answers and if possible write it all down in front of them, and then show it to them and ask if you got it right, sometimes they will change their tune when they know you are documenting everything....

Anyone has a JUKI TL-2000Qi?
http://www.amazon.com/JUKI-TL-2000Qi.../dp/B004C04YII

I don't need any fancy stitches, just a mean powerful straight stitch machine.
I see ebay selling this bundled with a Gracie frame. Looks really neat.

Go test drive machines. Don't let them just show you. Take some squares and you sew them. Also discuss their service dept. sometimes service is the most important.. Have fun checking it out.. Ps.. I have a Viking and a Janome and love both.