Each of us has our own preference so there are as many answers as there are machines. I love Pfaff machines. Don't rush to buy. Go to all the dealers you can and look at all the features. Test them out. Go home and think about it and narrow your choices to a couple of machines. Then go back and look again at those machines. Definitely look at what you are getting for your money. Last year's model will often give you the same (or close) features for far less money than the newest model. I bought my current Pfaff when the new models were coming out. I don't have automatic thread cutter or knee lift, but at half price ($1100 vs $2500) I don't need those features.
Congratulations on your baby and your great DH. Happy sewing with whichever machine you select.