If I had it to do over again I would buy a cheap workhorse for piecing but it would have to have the needle down feature.
Then a second machine with a very large hoop area so I can quilt blocks with embroidery. It would have to have a stitch regulator also.
All the different brands have a following so thats not so important.
Im curious about bobbin areas. I have only used top loading and like them very much, the bottom loaders seem to be a pain to work with. Who has both and what is your take on them?