Originally Posted by mic-pa
The Janome machines are my favorite, however you need to go check the various macihines out, check features you want, cost of machine and how well your dealer will service it for you. That is the most important. Because you need a dealer who will give you classes and help you in any way you need. DoNOT buy it off the internet, or second hand. The old saying, you get what you pay for. Good Luck. Marge
Mic-pa is absolutely correct. This type of purchase requires some hands-on research. Go into the stores, talk to the dealers, try the machines (if possible), and ofcourse, read reviews from other users of the brands you like. I am a Brother fan myself, but I have never tried many other brands so I can't say how they compare to each other. (Brother vs. Bernina, Pfaff, Janome, etc)