I go on retreat with several people that have them and LOVE them. If you have a dealer near you, go there and try one out. You don't say where you're from but if it's anywhere near central Illinois or Indiana go to Threads of Time in Danville Illinois and they'll help you. They have lots of machines to try, knowledgable employees that are ready and willing to spend time with you to help you decide the best machine for you, a comfortable showroom with lots of fabric and if you purchase a machine from them they offer free lessons. If you're not close, you can always pack an overnight bag and a bit of food and enjoy the retreat center's accomodations, although you'd want to call first and make sure they aren't booked to capacity.