Not all Vikings are expensive. The Emerald 116 and 118 are mechanical machines and are great for beginners as well as more experienced sewists. I like the Pfaffs with the IDT(full time walking foot); I have an old Pfaff 1222E and it has the IDT, if it weren't so danged heavy it would be a take to class machine.
I also like the Singer Featherweight, but not the new Singers(not living up to the
Singer name IMHO). I also have 2 older Berninas, the 930 and 1031. The only new machine I have is the Husqvarna Viking Sapphire 875. Its got a nearly 10" throat and does free motion quilting and walking foot quilting great. I love it! Its also great for garment sewing and makes fabulous buttonholes.
You really need to take your fabrics and threads and go test drive several different brands. A good machine dealer is great to have so you can learn your new machine and answer any questions.
Sharon W.