All the advice so far is great. If you can afford it I would buy the HQ18 Avante over the HQ16 as the room availabe for quilting makes a difference also the table is more secure. The HQ16 is a great machine, I had one for 4 or 5 years and upgraded to the HQ18 Avante. Just take your time at the show and tell the rep you are serious and they will make time.