Thanks Maggie! This FQ-4 has the same size hoops..which is nice, and what I'd like to have. I just read the reviews on PatternReviews', the more I read, I see I would have to have a laptop, or place this machine right next to my desktop to transfer patterns via USB cable for Emb. With my Janome 300E, I transfer via flash card..Works great..as machines in separate rooms...The J 350E was "upgraded" that way as well..I prefer this card system, but what the heck, I can buy a cheapo laptop to do the job. It would certainly be a clearer picture of design..I think I'll look into the 500 xl as well. See what that offers...thanks berni