All these replies telling you to do the research are exactly right. I joined several yahoo groups for machines I thought were the best for me. One had post after post with problems that were ongoing and very little manufacturer support. I marked that one off first. I was still a novice quilter and had never used a longarm other than trying them out at shows. I checked them out at quilt shops and shows. I researched for 1 1/2 years, 7 months ago I purchased an 18" Innova on a 12 ' frame. A wonderful machine and the frame is the best I have ever seen. I haven't taken lessons which I am sure is a better way. I am learning from a few good dvd's I purchased, great youtube videos and info I learn on this board. I have done probably 10 quilts now, have much to learn but lots of improvement as I go. I have several health hurdles, quilting is my therapy that actually works! Good luck.