I agree with everything you've said. If I might add, when getting ready to purchase a LAM, research, research, research - especially the seller/dealer. How many classes are included in the purchase price? What sort of support is availabe to you - both in the store and online? Can you talk with the dealer easily? Can they answer your questions? What will supplies cost you? Does the machine use a certain count or brand thread (i.e., 2 or 3 ply) - that could impact its cost. Should you have a problem with the machine head, do they make house calls? Cost? Or are you required to take the head to them? Some of them are really heavy!
Don't mean to overload on the questions, but these are some of the things that need to be addressed.
Now, if you still want one - go! Don't forget, they can be intimidating at first, but they are oh, so much fun!!!! :thumbup: