I want to do a compare on a couple of machines. I had a 401A purchased in 1958. It was a work horse, sewed thousands of hours on and everything imaginable (and some not probably). It was too large to bring with us as it was in a cabinet and I no longer had the bottom cover. I have had several machines since then and now have the SQ9000. I would not go back to the 401A. The 9000 does so many things and so easy to go from one stitch to another. It quilts, sews, has a ton of decorative stitches, makes buttonholes, sews on buttons and all with ease. I use the stop/start button instead of the foot pedal which allows me to sew for longer periods of time. And while I can still thread the needle, I am sure as I get older, I will like the needle threader. JMHO