An update: I went ahead and ordered the Brother Innovis 600 at 1:30pm on Tuesday and it was at my door, no shipping charge, by noon the next day! Not only that, but they included free FIFTY rolls of thread and a whole set of scissors. I've set it up, had a play, and I really love it! I know it's more machine than I need, but it was on sale and I just wanted it. So far, I've no regrets. I did lots of Internet searches for reviews on both the machine and the company I bought it from.
I'm happy and off to sew my first-ever patchwork project.