I have a Janome Memory Craft 7000 ------ had it for over 10 yrs now & its the best one I've ever had. The needle up/needle down feature is probably my favorite but I think most all machines have that now. Also, we have a dealership w/an excellent service person there; I couldn't buy anything that I can't get cleaned/serviced/repaired locally. I have friends who have had to send their machines out for servicing & they've been gone for 3 months!! :-( :cry: :!: I would walk miles & go get mine first :wink:
I know many people are brand loyal & I am somewhat. And while I may love a Bernina, I don't have the bucks for one. (Or the turned up nose - LOL - that my best friend says is required to have one ;) :lol: :lol: [least that's how it appears in our community of quilters - they are very clique-ish])
Have fun 'test-driving'!! I think we're all a little green!