I started with juki TL98Q (9 inch harp) on a table top type frame. I was glad I started with a smaller machine. #1 I didn't invest so much $. In case I didn't like machine quilting, I could use that machine to just sew with. #2 I liked practicing with a smaller machine. I DID upgrade to an HQ16 about 2 yrs later, but I was ready then and knew I was going to keep machine quilting. Get the best you can afford and don't beat yourself up when/if you are ready to upgrade. Its a journey!