I think all of your considerations are good machines, with the exception of a Bernina, which is a FABULOUS machine. If it were me, I would check Craigslist for a lightly used Bernina...I love, love, LOVE mine. Feel free to PM me if you have any particular questions. I have also owned a Janome 6600, so I can contrast and compare if needed. Have fun with your search. :-D