I just got the Bernina Artistia 635 on Saturday. Now, I do have another Bernina 1630 and had a Bernina 931 but it was 21 years old and when checking it out, they said there were problems with it. After all that time, it is time for something new. I could have picked something else but hubby liked this on that I just got. So, the 1630 is still working fine but that is what I take out to sew. This 635 will remain in the house as it does embroidery also. I am sure that there are many companies out that their machines do well. The main point here is that go for the gusto if you can. I had the so called starter years ago and got nothing but frustrated. So, pick something good that you know will take you 20 good years of sewing. Have a great day.