I tried out LAs for 2 years (all of ones at the Houston Quilt Show) before I decided. Then took several LA classes from LQS before I decided which one to buy. I also studied where local vendors were for repairs & maintenance and whether some of the LAs had local groups that might get together to trade tips and give assistance. Since I live in 2 states, I had 2 areas to deal with for my criteria. I have several vendors to choose from both places I live.
I ended up with Jewel (BabyLock). Besides getting the LA, along with the leader cloths, frame, channel locks, laser stylus, etc..., I paid $8900. BabyLock also offered classes 6-8 times a year on the Jewel machines in St. Louis which I am on my way to in September. the classes are for 4 days. You just need to bring your project.