It is a far cry from my old Elna, bought in 1964. But even though I am green, I must say that my Elna has never been in a shop, never had a single problem with her and will never part with her. Right now she is on loan to my youngest daughter whose "cheapie" machine gave out on her as she was trying to put together her very first quilt top. I sure do envy you all that throat area though. What a wonderful time you are going to have, playing around and finding new and exciting things to do with that machine.