I have 2 brothers. ONe is just a cheapie that doesn't work right, and I can't find the replacement parts for it. The other is the SE 270 D that embroiders (there are some posts I made about it a long time ago, if you want to search). I had a lot of trouble with it. It finally died before the first year...THey FINALLY stood behind their product warranty and fixed it. Brother has a POOR service department. They treat you like you know nothing. I really love the machine, but I had a lot of problems. Some users don't have a single problem. I will not buy another Brother, though, and just thinking of their poor service department sends chills up my spine. After holding for like 15 minutes, they treat you like you are 4 years old. :(
There have been posts about recommended sewing machines on here before...if you want to do a search, I'm sure you'd find a lot of great advice.