When I was in the market for a LA, I was fortunate enough to make it to the Houston Quilt Show. Needless to say, I think all of the brands were there. I had done some homework before I went, so had an idea of what I was looking for.
For me, space was an issue. I really didn't want a long arm frame installed in my formal living room (the only space larger enough). So I began searching Sit-down Models. I enjoy FMQ so much I really wanted to keep doing my quilting that way. My biggest need was quilting area. The throat area. A DSM was just too small.
I looked at the "George" and the Sit-down Handi-quilter. Price was a consideration, but was not the final factor. The people from Handi-quilter were so much more willing to give me info and help. So I ended up buying the HQ16 with the sit-down table. I can still buy a frame and put the machine in it. So for me it was the best option. The table is small enough to fit in a corner, but large enough to work on.
Good Luck on whatever machine you end up with and happy quilting!