I currently use a Bernina PE140 that I bought new 7 years ago. My previous machine was a Bernina 830, which I purchased in 1976 and kept until 2001. Personally, I think my older machine was the better as this electronic machine doesn't have the power my old one did. However, Bernina is a very good machine, but expensive. Don't buy a cheap machine; you won't be happy if you do a lot of sewing. If you're only interested in quilting and not in doing fancy embroidery, I would suggest that you check out stores that carry good machines (Bernina, Husqvarna, Pfaff, etc.) and ask about older machines that have been traded in. You can often get a good deal, get lessons as well and have somewhere to go for support and maintenance. If you know what you want, check e-Bay. I wouldn't buy a Singer. I grew up with them and loved them when they were made in North America, but the last one I had leaked oil constantly.