Hello,

I joined the QB last year. I rarely post, but enjoy reading the forum. I would like to buy EQ 5. I have seen some copies on ebay for a very reasonable price. I was wondering what people think of that version. I tried out a demo version of 123 Quilt last year, and liked it but wanted a little bit more. Is it easy to use for beginners? Are there any things I should think about before buying a used version? Any questions to be asked of the seller?

Thank you.

I don't know about a used version, but I had EQ5 and really liked it, so much so that I upgraded to EQ6 as soon as it came out. There are several here on the board who have EQ, and who might be able to help with any queries you have, also there is a forum for EQers on their website, plus there are a range of books printed to help you or encourage you in different directions - you could ask for one or two of them for Christmas presents.

Be sure it comes with the registration/serial number or you won't be able to install it. I see on Ebay many EQ5 programs are from upgrading to EQ6 but if they bought the upgrade not the whole EQ6 program, the serial number would be registered to them? I have EQ and it's worth saving to get the new EQ5 or 6.

I bought EQ6, because it was already out when I started quilting. Later I bought the Dear Jane software, which is based on EQ5. I can see a big difference in user-friendliness between the two versions, and EQ6 also has more features.

You have to be careful when purchasing used software, because EQ can be installed a limited number of times. This policy protects against software piracy, or sharing, which is the same thing. I don't view the limited number of installations as an issue if I am buying new software, because the manufacturer will make allowances for legitimate need for additional installations. However I would view it as a problem with previously owned software.

The other things to consider are support and upgrades. I am looking forward to the day when EQ7 comes out and I can get even more features by upgrading from EQ6. EQ typically charges half the price to upgrade if you have the most recent version.

There are online retailers who discount EQ6 so it comes to around $130 with free shipping.

Thank you all for your replies. The reason I wanted to buy used was because I thought EQ might be too complicated for me to figure out and if I bought new and couldn't use it, I would be out all that money. This would be a way for me to try it out.

Thanks

EQ6 has limited installs, the other versions do not. I read many won't buy EQ6 because of the limited installs. I don't understand that. You can get more installs if you need them on the EQ website if you have registered your program.

I am now thinking that I should buy new. It looks like EQ 5 is still available. What are the differences between EQ% and EQ6.
Thanks

This page shows the updates that went into eq6.

http://www.electricquilt.com/Shop/EQ6/EQ6F.asp

Dunster - That was a BAD, BAD, BAD website you posted.
I absolutely HAVE to have it and NOW!!! But I would probably spend all my time using the program and not quilting.. lol! Seriously, thanks for posting the site. I loved it..... and now I am thinking, thinking, thinking....