I have the lowly Brother SE-350 Sewing / emb combo..
Very easy to use.
coems with a variety of built in fonts/designs
LOTS of free designs available ( mine uses .PES)
Get the biggest hoop u can afford ( mine has only a 4x4)
( but I can't complain,,, it was a gift)
I'd love to have a color display ( mine is black and white)
I'd love to have a USB port. ( mine only has the memory card slot)
I've done everything from teatowels to bath towels and quilts with it.... I find it is very versatile...