I live in the UK and I know what you mean but........ I used to live in Scotland and went to the 1st Loch Lomond Quilt Exhibition, which was fantabulous but whilst I was there I bought my Elna 7200 but the best thing was that I bought it from one of the best sewing machine suppliers in the UK, David Drummonds in Edinburgh. Don't let that faze you, their service is second to none and David personally runs the business and sells reconditioned machines, a really good option on a limited budget. What I would recommend it to give him a ring and have a chat I am sure he can help. If you have a prob getting his telephone number PM me. DON'T go to Argos for a sewing machine EVER, they only sell cheapo standard machines which are no good for quilting.
BTW I now live in Wales and I still get David to service my machine as he gives free shipping if you keep the original box!