My first machine was a Singer Sonata. (lower end) Love it, and it can do so much! Bought A Viking machine thinking I was upgrading-wrong! Could never get it to sew right. The local dealer treated me like it was my fault and that I didn't know what I was talking about.
I called Viking to complain about him, and my machine, then traded it off and went out and got myself a Pfaff 7510. Love it too!
I have just recently acquired a Featherweight and a 301. Am looking forward to getting the accessories and learning about these beauties!! :)