Thank you for your input. I will be sure to look at the frames. I'm just starting this process and all the input will be much appreciated about any machine.
My limitation will be the size of the frame (I have some space limitations) and my reach. I'm "vertically challenged", as my son likes to put it. He's 6'4" and I'm only 5'3". Though I would like to get one with a very large throat space... I don't think I'd be able to utilize a 24" one.
Keep the info coming...