I have a Brother Star 230 E which I bought in Australia while living in that neck of the woods (and haven't been able to find it here). I run it on a transformer here, since it is 220. I love the machine for piecing (have made over 28 quilts with it so far), have only machine quilted a couple of small quilts with purchased (about $45.00) walking foot(usually hand-quilt), but I do applique some quilts by machine. There is no blanket stitch which I really wish it had, so use a zig-zag stitch as the default stitch. If you want the machine for just piecing, I don't have a complaint about my Brother, but will be looking to purchase a new one this year so I will be in the same boat as you. I am reading everyone's comments with interest!!