I sew on a Bernina 440 QE, but didn't get that until a few years ago (when Bernina ran a heck of a special). I had an older Bernina that was wayyyy reliable, and my back up maching is a 1977 Kenmore that I bought new. I swear I could sew through tin cans with that machine..LOL It's a work horse that I'll never part with.
My suggestions are look for a nice brand name machine from a dealer that was traded in for an upgrade. There's nothing wrong with a good used machine and as a rule dealers will help someone learn the machine and back it for 30 -60 days depending on their contract. That's what I got for my dd.
Awhile back a friend of mine was looking for a class machine. I told her I had seen refurbished Janome's on OVERSTOCK for $99.00 and she bought one. She absolutely loves the machine and is using the daylights out of it.
Lots of options.. as you can see. I'm 1000% happy with my Bernina, but I mainly went with a Bernina because my friend is the local dealer. I know others who swear by their Vikings, Pfaffs, Janomes..other brands...and even old TREADLE SINGERS.
IMO - dealing with a brand specific dealer on a sewing machine is a better bet then a big box store. A dealer will back their brand/product.
Good Luck.
Last edited by Highmtn; 11-20-2011 at 08:22 AM.