I don't know about the machine you mentioned, but I've had my Janome DC2010 for a couple of months now and LOVE it! I haven't pieced or quilted yet (that's in the upcoming class at the quilt shop). But for general sewing for a semi beginner it's been great...so neat to learn how to use it, too! I came across a website the other day that is reviewing machines under $500 and thought you might be interested. She has done a few reviews (you'll need to look at the archives for the past couple of months to see the more recent reviews) but this link will get you started:
http://freemotionquilting.blogspot.c...e-program.html