I say try the singer first!!!
Do you have many Viking feet? They're expensive, aren't they? That would factor into the cost.
I have a brother pc420 and really like it a lot. It's similar to the brother nx450 (which is the same as Babylock Melody I think). All 3 of those machines have the knee lift and thread cutter. Or there is the straight stitch brother 1500s/Babylock Jane you could consider.
But truly, I would go vintage singer. Either the one you have or another vintage machine. I have my grandmothers 15-91 I plan to use for FMQ. Otherwise I might look for a Singer 201 or 301.
http://quiltedcupcake.blogspot.com/2...episode-8.html