Whatever you decide on, be sure to try out various models everywhere. I really liked one machine, but I simply couldn't figure out to attach the "supposedly built in" walking foot. (I guess they really meant that it came with the machine, and you didn't have to buy it separately. :) ) I also wanted a machine that wasn't too noisy.
I tried out machines at three places here in town, and I ended up with a Pfaff. I am very very happy with it. I almost bought the same machine online, but I decided having a dealer here right in town that I bought it from would be an advantage someday...plus I found out a years' worth of classes and 3 years free maintenance came with it. Nice.
I bought my machine a year ago.
Happy hunting.