I am new to the quilting board, but when I saw this question I just had to register so I could reply. I have had a Bernina 1230 since 1991 and I am SOOOO totally happy with it that I just had to tell you. It's one of Bernina's best. I have an older Bernina and a 1630, plus a Bernina serger and I wouldn't go with any other. That's my own opinion, of course. Every once in a while there's a 1230 on ebay, and they will still go for close to $1,000 - which is half the price of the new in 1991. Good luck to you.