There is a "real" Pfaff available for around $800 and it is a wonderful machine. worth the money for the even feed alone. It is an Ambition, the entry level computerized machine in their line. I also have an about $700 Viking that I like almost as much. It was a closeout at the end of the model life. That is my FMQing machine. You can find good machines without spending thousands.
I too would advise you to have a good dealer nearby whatever you buy. (Although my Pfaff dealers are far away!)