Originally Posted by bobquilt3
..."because of Viking's declining quality" they had switched to Baby Lock machines. Has anyone heard this ?
I have NEVER heard this. I have been to Viking dealers in at least 4 states asking about machines. The Viking Designer (original Designer with D cards) is over 10 years old, I bought it used and saved $1,000 from new. I have never had any problems...knock on wood. I know some brands, like Singer which always had great reputations, now have their "inner parts" made in China - and not always to the best tolerances.
When some dealer bad mouths a brand, I ask for specifics. I usually get the made in China or nothing at all. Always a good idea to ask. BTW, my Mom just bought a used Viking +1 from 1995 with sewing and embroidery complete package - software that you can modify on a computer, 2 big embroidery hoops, embroidery software (8 packages), tons of feet, etc. for less than $500. and it works great!