I bought the Brother 1500s because the dealer pointed out that if it needed parts replaced, the cost is much less for the Brother than the Juki or Janome. He even compared a few parts such as the thread cutter. Appx 10 X.
I have the stitch regulator/speed control. It plugs in to the machine where you plug in the foot pedal. It uses a button to start and stop. No foot pedal in the way or to chase after. The only negative is that when you stop moving the machine, the needle continues to move up and down until you push the button.
I purchased my 1st machine new, last September, with the Gracy II frame and stitch reg, for appx $1700. I purchased my 2nd Brother 1500s today with a Grace machine quilter frame at a yard sale for $400, for my sister.
I found the yard sale on Craigslist. I searched longarm sewing machine and quilting machines. You can also search Ebay or Amazon. Should be able to get a new machine for less than $600.