I've had Pfaff (Hobby Lock) sergers, they are really good. I've had a Janome serger, but it was pretty complicated and I changed out to a Baby Lock. This is the easiest and by far the best serger for my use. I used to sew clothes but now, not so much. So I'm not too much into sergers, but when one is needed, nothing else will do.
As far a an embroidery machine is concerned, I concur with amma - look for one that has AT LEAST a 5x7 hoop. Any smaller, not too useful in the long haul.