Should I upgrade from a Bernina 730 to the 830?
 

I am tempted by the large harp on the Bernina 830 which should ease the problem of trying to wrestle with a large piece of work when quilting. I have slight reservations about the 830 as I have heard that it has teething problems. Any feedback would be very welcome.

Hi. I've got the 830. Sorry, but I don't know what you mean by "teething problem". There have been sensor problems, but those were all covered under warranty. I've had my upper tension/threading mechanism replaced, larger BSR spring and both upper and lower sensors replaced all under warranty. I love the large harp space and I would buy the machine again.

Forgive me ,but that sounds like alot of issues , wether covered by warrenty or not.

Yup, and I wasn't happy running to the dealer with my problems. But, with the kinks in my machine worked out and a great dealer, it's been o.k.

I belong to a on line club that talks about all machines. The 730 is the one that gets the best review. Everyone that has one wants to hang on to it. I also would like the 830. In my sewing group several have the machine and love it, but also say it is very sensitive and of course HEAVY. If you do decided to get one make sure you get a dealer that really knows the machine and gives lessons.

My friend has the 830 and loves it. They are temperamental but very fast and sew beautifully. Not portable at all. Definitely agree with dkm to purchase from dealer who knows the machine.

I have the 830 and have not had one problem with it. It is a great machine, some of the earlier machines did have problems but I sure haven't heard of anyone with a newer machine having problems. A person always hears about the problems of the machines but never hear of ones that are running great.

Go to a Bernina dealer and try one out. There are two 800 series machines, one that does embroidery and one that does not do embroidery. It's an expensive purchase, so be sure you bring something to sew and give it a good test. Read up everything you can on it. If you do buy it, enjoy it! Lucky you!!!

I have a 830 that i bought brand new in 1975. LOVE IT. had the bushing replaced once due to wearing them out. Today I had a chance to buy a 730, gently used, bought new in the 70's. Comes with a beautiful cabinet too. What is it worth?

Check on ebay to see what the older 730 and 830 are going for. I think they are the Record series. Worth holding on to, I would think, but not the same harp size and whatnot of the new ones.