Can't really help you...
But....
I had a Viking Designer (not the quilter or embroidery) and I loved it!
I bought a Brother 8500D sewing/embroidery combo...
Had to sell one, so I sold the Viking.
I have sewn on that Brother for 4 years, never a problem. Quilted a few quilts as well, including 2 queen size with batting and fleece backing.
Bought another Brother last year, the Duetta 4500 and I love that machine.
Finally found an excellent deal on a Top of the line Pfaff Creative Vision that I couldn't pass up...
I am really liking that machine and it is so similiar to a Viking. I love it!
(They are probably made by the same)
I don't know about Berninas...but I can say I really like Brother machines and the Pfaff CV...
Just my 2 stitches...
Kirsten