Originally Posted by nursie76
My first Bernina, a 440QE had a BSR and that is what convinced me to buy her AND to attempt FMQ ing. I now have the 730 which also has the BSR and I use it whenever I FMQ. I also have a Juki on a frame and it has a Cruise control (stitch regulator). Some say it is like training wheels, so perhaps someday I will be good enough to FMQ without a stitch regulator, but for now, without one, I wouldn't do any FMQ ing.
Perhaps you could get a good deal on a gently used model Bernina at a dealers and then use it to trade up in time. They really hold their value. Also, if you are looking to get the machine in 2011, look for a quilt show in your area, you can get some great deals on almost new machines used for demo at the show. Good luck for whatever you decide.
This is really good advice. Nursie might have kept her 440QE (?), but there are plenty who trade it in to upgrade.
I'd check out the local Bernina dealers, and also look online (eBay) to see some prices (you might need to sign in):
Current listings:
http://crafts.shop.ebay.com/Sewing-F...=p3286.c0.m282
Completed listings:
http://completed.shop.ebay.com/Sewin...c0.m283&_rdc=1
Obviously, the different attachments included with each machine will affect the prices.
But it's a starting point.