Yes, 250 is too high. This is a really, really old machine. It is a workhorse though. I have the 600, a successor, and it is still going even though it is at least 20 years old. The 500 is even older. It only has a 4x4 design field and you'll feel too constrained by that soon. It also uses an obsolete technology for the design transfer. Don't get me wrong; I love my little 600, but it is not one that I would recommend for a beginner.
Pam