I really don't think that there is any best machine or best brand of sewing machines. Each brand seems to have some very appealing machines and unique features so it is a matter of matching the machine to the quilter. There are definately some classics out there that many stitchers favour but they may not suit you. I have a Bernina 830 Record (a classic always in demand), a couple of Featherweights and a Janome 6500 my current machine to FM quilt on. My daughter has "borrowed" my Husqvarna Prelude 370 which I also really like. I am contemplating buying a new machine and have considered the Janome 7700, Husqvarna 875 and a Sweet Sixteen HQ sit down quilting machine and table. Now if only I could design my perfect machine.