The repairman for my machines told me that the really low end sewing machines (all brands) are not meant to be repaired, but tossed when they fail. He said even if they can be fixed, the cost of fixing them could be more than the original price paid. Is it better to spend a little bit of money for a machine that is not destined to go the long haul and doesn't do what you need it to do, only to be replaced in a few years?
I have the Janome 6600 and I love that machine. It's easy to operate and has all the features in a non-embroidery machine that I need. As stated in previous posts, the lighting is great, the Accufeed is great, and the stitch quality is great. Just my thoughts.