If you have a quilt show nearby, visit it as you can try many machines, but as mentioned before, pick something with service nearby! You may not need repair, but many of those shops also have classes which can help you get the most out of your machine. My sister only uses Bernina, but that's also because of service options where she is. I have almost 30% off a Bernina 550QE if I choose one used at an upcoming quilt show. New out of box, used for three days of classes and sold for $1700 less. Still up there in price and I'm struggling to decide between that and a Husqvarna Viking (Tribute or Sapphire).