I live in the sticks and can't get off the farm for long. I did not try any long arms before purchasing.....just did months of reading and research on and off line before making a decision. In November I purchased an APQS Millie with the blissed frame, and quilt glide. The machine is extremely user friendly, and I've been having a ball using it. One of the big reasons I went the APQS direction is because their customer service track record is top notch and their forum members are very generous with tips and pointers even if you're a newbie. I agree that if you have the time and opportunity to try a number of long arms, you should try as many as possible. As for me....I'm thrilled with the machine I chose to buy.