When I was shopping for a machine the Janome was sold in a vacuum store and the man that demonstrated it was knowledgeable, he wasn't a sewer. The Bernina was sold in a sewing store where they also sold fabrics etc. and had regularly scheduled classes. So, for the support provided and for the BSR, Bernina won out. I enjoy attending classes, Bernina Club and getting to know so many wonderful sewers! Lots of good inspiration and information available in the company of other sewers.