Originally Posted by Moose
Thank you all for the replies. Although I am still hoping for you to rank brands since it would really help me make a decision,
Well, I have a Bernina 1230 and still think it's one of the best machines ever made. If I were going to buy another machine, I'd add a Pfaff for the integrated walking foot. My third machine would be a long-arm, but that's a whole 'nother topic!
One thing I would advise is that if you think you might want to do embroidery one day, buy a separate embroidery machine for that kind of sewing. Don't try to get one machine now that will do everything. With two machines you can be piecing a quilt on one while the other machine is embroidering for you.