I use Embird. I like it because you can buy each component as you are ready for it, and upgrades are usually very inexpensive (well under $50, I think).
I started with just the basics, which costs about $144. I learned to manipulate placement of designs, resize them, recolor them, and combine designs.
I then wanted more fonts (I think it comes with 3) and I bought a couple, but at $15 each, I could see that the Font Engine, at $145 with endless options, would really save me money. Wow! Font Engine is ultra-cool. I began designing logos just using different letters and wingdings. You can bring in almost any true type font and convert it.
About 18 months after I started, I purchased Studio and Sfumato for about $150 (it's more expensive now). I've been slowly teaching myself to digitize through email lists, workbooks, and trial and error. Just started with Sfumato and it is FUN! (that's taking photos and making them into embroidery designs)
During this time I bought a new embroidery machine and it came with PEDesign. That program is ok and I did some nice stuff in it, but Embird is currently meeting all of my needs so I haven't looked at PED for some time.
Free trial at
http://www.embird.com/
Best prices at :
http://anembroideredaffair.com/StoreFront.bok
Hope that helps.
Julie