I have a Babylock Decorator's Choice. Most of the time it works well but when it doesn't, it is annoying. I just had my machine to the repair shop about a month ago. They did fix something with the thread cutter but mine is now making that funny sound when the cutter is engaged and the bobbin thread is not cut. Before that, I had to pull on the top thread when I started to sew so the thread would stay in the needle eye. My solution for now is to cut the thread manually, does use more thread but saves on aggravation. My repair at the time was $100. I would never pay an amount as a diagnostic fee. Try and find a repair shop nearer to your home. They may not sell machines but do repair a lot of brands. My daughter who lives in Michigan found a repair shop close to home and they did a great job for her. She likens getting the machine repaired to having an oil change in the car. On another note, I'm not sure Jazz has a thread cutter. Does anyone know about this?