montanaquilter -
You have gotten lots of good advice here. The best piece of advice is purchase from someone "local" (or someone who you can reach) who will help you if you have problems. Used machines from a dealer are a great bargain if you can find one.
I have had several machines - so here is my 2 cents worth. I had an old Viking 6370 which I gave to my daughter (which I now regret - it was a great mechanical machine for heavy sewing). I now have two Pfaffs both used (one purchased from a dealer and the other one from a gal who worked in the local Pfaff store and listed on Craigslist). I have a 2054 for sewing and a 2170 for embroidery. I bought Pfaff because if the IDT foot (built in walking foot) - I love them both. I just sold a Babylock Ellageo to a friend which was a sweet machine and I sold Vikings for two years which were also nice machines. Each name brand company has good machines - the support is the key.
Good luck and let us know what you get!!! :lol: :lol: