I love my Brother and obtained it after the Janome I really wanted was discontinued. I really wanted that Janome but have been very happy with my Brother.
I went more by features of what I wanted than by brand and I set a budget and didn't go over it.
It took me 6 months to pick out a machine and going to 3 major quilt shows to find the one I liked. The quilt shows had better deals but I bought local to have all the free training for life and the discount on accessories needed.