i do know of two other bernina dealers. my concern is that if I buy this machine, will the other dealers honor the warrentee and be helpful, or is it a case of "you really need to have bought it here for me to take care of you". sigh. I need to be honest, 2000+ for a sewing machine is a HUGE thing for me. to not have good back up is scary. As I said, i can buy the viking and most likely be very very happy.