Machine Snobs are directly related family members of Quilt Police. Don't allow either one into your life for a minute.
I have a Pfaff from the 70's that is an absolute workhorse. I've thought of getting a new machine, but my old one just WON'T QUIT WORKING.
So, when I got ready to buy a serger, I found one of the exact vintage and brand on Craig's list, and paid only $100 for it. Downloaded the book off the internet, and once I got the thing threaded, it works like a charm.
Not everyone has several grand sitting around with which to buy an expensive machine. And that snob at the store who made you feel bad should be fired. I own a retail store, and if I found out one of my employees made a customer feel bad, I would be very, very angry. Livid.