Well...my recommendation is for you to go to the trade shows, or quilt shows, and try all of em- see which ones you like, and what features you like. I prefer my quilts to be hand guided, if they are done by machine, its too smart for me cuz im no computer jenius. But do be mindful of options, a stitch regulator is a must. Prob even best to buy your machine at a show, cuz youll get a better price. Another thing is finding a dealer- what if something goes wrong with your machine?
How long are you willing to drive to get it fixed? I have to say I bought mine at a show and never looked back-
bad thing is, have taken it to the dealer a few times, like 3 or 4, and he never fixed the problem, Im from Ohio- so I had to purchase an empty box- which almost cost me $100. and had to ship it to Utah. long story short, I sent it back to the manufacturer just before t-giving and i got it back after the first week of december, with quilts piling up.
Anyway, was thrilled with the service, havent had a problem since!! Handi-Quilter 16 all they way baby!! love it
katz