Maggie, you are correct, it is NOT a mid arm. But from what I understand (friend in Dallas has one) it is a very strong machine with great features.
http://www.raichert.com has it for $975
My friend does alot of Home Dec and she says it's really great. It's semi industrial like the 98Q.
By the way, LOVE my 2010Q. I can't believe the difference in my FMQ using it.