Make a list of the things you want your new machine to do. Eliminate the machines that don't do what you want. Check out the remaining ones, ie written, verbal, visual checks, and decide on that basis. I'm tired of sewers thinking only certain names of machines determine whether or not you're going to be able to do a good job. I have a friend who has a cheap Walmart/Target type machine and does a beautiful job with her piecing, and also friends who have Bernina/Pfaff/high end machines who no-where near compare. It's all in having what you want, and also the ability to pay for your choices. Not all sewers have endless resources to buy the thousand dollar machines! I love my Pfaffs, Singers, Kenmore, Brothers, and Janomes and didn't buy any of them NEW. I make beautiful, high end quality quilts, and don't stress over anything but that! A friend and I bought a LA together, so there's always that option, too.