If you had to do it over again - would you?
YES, I Have a Brother Quattro and Baby Lock Symphony. Usually keep the Quattro set up for embroidery.
Has it been reliable?
Yes.
Has it been picky about threads?
Only use Aurifil and Metrosene and never had a problem.
Have you had it in for repairs and/or adjustments more than a couple of times?
None. Zero. Nada. Never.
Would you still keep back-up machines?
I use a Pfaff 7510 as a back up machine, because of the built in IDT system, and a Bernina Artistry 730, however, my Brother and Babylock are my favorites.