Originally Posted by kellen46

I have this machine and I bought it just because it has a bigger harp area, which makes a huge difference. I use it for stitch in the ditch but it can do free motion. I am spoiled though because my Bernina ( my all purpose 440 that I use for all other sewing)has a stitch regulator and I use that a lot. However with a little practice I could do it. It has a nice powerful motor and that is a plus as is the automatic thread cutter. Here is the down side. I paid only $599, new, shipped free from an on-line company www.allbrands.com. So she is very high on her pricing. If she would sell it to you at most for $400 it would be worth the deal but as is you are not getting much of a cost reduction for a possibly used machine. If I had it to do over I probably would spend another extra $100 to get the upgraded 1500s as it has a speed control and the is helpful for the free motion quilting. It is not a deal breaker though. Check on line and see where the best bargains are for you. I researched a lot. I don't have a Brother dealer near me but if you do go do a test sew before you commit. Happy sewing and good luck.