I bought the 7700 -- I wanted the free arm, the larger harp and the additional lighting. A bonus is that it is MUCH quieter than my 6500. I was not happy with the dial, but have found that I really don't need to use it so I use the touch screen directly. I did have some issues with sewing over multiple seams, but the new foot fixed them. I love the additional flexibility in the adjustment of the stitches. Mine was one of the first 7700's made and I have not had the problems that others have seen.