Bernina is one of the top brands as far as domestic sewing machines go...don't know about a long arm tho...and I wouldn't consider this a true long arm but rather a DSM with a little larger harp. If you want to see what a standard LA machine looks like, google either Long Arm quilting machines or do it by brand...i.e., Gammill, (which is what I have), or APQS, Nolting, KenQuilt, Prodigy, A-1, Handiquilter. Good luck with your search, wish I could help more.