Like some of the others said - look around and try out different machines. I went to a local quilt show last year and the Bernina dealer had some excellent sales. I bought a Bernina Aurora 440QE for almost 2k off the list price. It was used during the show so only had a couple of hours on it. After you find the machine you like ask for a deal. Perhaps they have just what you want that has been traded in on a pricier model. I did that with my Pfaff 7550 that I have had for almost 16 years and it runs beautifully. It was made in Germany and has the built in walking foot. Also have the Viking Mega Quilter which pieces well also but is only a straight stitch machine meant for quilting tops. There are good deals out there -- you just have to find out which fits you best by TRYING them out. Good Luck :thumbup: