I used Janome 300E and 350 which were great little m/c embroidery starting machines but the 11000 offered greater embroidery area and functions etc. I have daughter and friends with Janome 11000 and glad I chose the Brother Innovis 4000D 3 years ago. Whilst 11000 machine seems reliable at first there have been problems with upgrades and parts. Several of our local dealers are no longer carrying Janome machines at all and the 11000 is now obsolete - I understand that there will not be any future models made. I have another friend who is an expert dressmaker and appliquer who has bought the latest Bernina and after using 11000 has much to learn so has not progressed as well as she hoped - she works part time and is always being interrupted at home to make clothing etc for others. Think twice about the 11000 - the extra 40mile hike for demo could be well worth it.