I have a Brother (4000) that I bought from a WalMart a couple of years ago. I LOVE it, it is light weight, has 40 stitches(including 3 dif. button holes), has needle down feature, needle threader, and is so very quiet!!!!!!
I got mine for $123 then. I recomend Brother to all the beginer students that are looking for a good machine.
I had had a New Home for over 30 years and when it died - I went looking for a replacement, and did not have a lot of $ to spend either. I am very pleased with my Brother.