No this is not a combo machine. I just talked to my SM dealer about this very machine and was told that it is a great one for the price. There is also the cs6000T which I was told was the same machine. The 6000i isn't going be manufacture anymore but parts will be readily available because so many are interchangeable with all the Brothers. I ended up purchasing the 6000T because I could get a Refurbished one and save a lot of $$. Both my other Brother machines were refurbished and I've had very little problem with them in over 5 years.
I bought this machine for the exact purpose that you are consdiering. Although I have several vintage machines and let my granddaughter sew on my 15--91, I'm going to teach her how to use this one.
Good luck with your decision.