I have had that machine for 3 years. It is now my back up machine. I know it says not to oil. But, I always put a drop of oil on the top of the needle bar. Put the needle all the way down and put a drop of oil on the top part. Run it for a minute with any thread. I bet that banging stops. As for the comparison, nope it is not a Bernina or a Janome. But, for the money it will get the job done.