There is no best machine but there are lots out there to choose from. Make a list of the features you would really like and then do your research. After making a short list, go and try them out. If you have a quilt guild show or Creative Needlework Festival as we do in Toronto twice a year, it is a great opportunity to try out and compare all of the machines. Take some quilt blocks to actually stitch when you try out the machine. Don't let them hurry you into making a quick decision. For $2000 you should be able to get a fabulous machine or even two (everyone needs a back-up machine just in case or to take out for classes).