I am partial to Viking machines...mainly because I love my LQS that I frequent and that is where I bought mine. When I am able to upgrade to an even nicer machine (when both daughters are through college...2 years..I am counting!) I will buy another Viking from the same place. That said...I think you should go with the Bernina. You listed all kinds of good reasons and I think you would be happy with either. So, get it from your LQS!