Thanks for your input. The sewing machine store dropped the price to $350 which includes a store warranty and lessons. However, after looking over the machine more thoroughly, I am thinking I want to take it up a notch. I was offered a new Brother 780D for $999. The good thing is that the store is very close to where I live and offers good support. My other option for the same price ($999) is a Bernina Deco 340 from the Bernina dealer about 45 minutes away and a real nuisance to get to. I am sure they would offer some lessons but the distance involved makes me think twice. Any thoughts on the Brother 780D?