Hi Lee,
Janome is the best. I bought the Platinum Gem last year at $500.It is small, only 12 lbs and great for taking to classes. I have done free motion and other quilting but it is really too small to do anything larger than a lap sized quilt. I know that the next step for me is the 6600 Quilter's Dream (Janome) that a friend has and she loves it. It is priced around $1700. Be sure to buy from a reputable dealer who will give you free classes in using the machine.
Good luck
judee