I have a Brother Nouvelle 1500S that I just bought about a month ago for strictly straight stitching for quilting but I've found that this machine is great for piecing too. This is not a computerized machine (which I didn't want because I have 2 other ones that are) but I don't miss any of the "modern" bells and whistles like the up/down needle or auto thread cutter on my other machines. What I really love is the fabric guide attachment. My 1/4" seams are so much better than they use to be. Whatever machine you decide on, be sure to get one of these attachments :) Such a simple thing really but it makes sewing those 1/4" seams less stressful.