I've had both a Grace set-up and an HQ16, and I HAVE TO HAVE the stitch regulator or I'd be so frustrated I'd quit altogether. I like the machine slowing down when I do, and speeding up when I do, and the stitches being relatively even, which is the whole point of it for me. I guess I could become good enough with enough practice, but I don't produce enough tops to get enough practice. So yes, for me it's worth every penny I put into it. I so admire people who can do beautiful quilting without it, but I sure can't!