My suggestion would be to be on the lookout for a used Brother or Juki model that you really like. You might just find one in your price range. I bought my stitch-regulated 15" bailey with frame, used, and it does a wonderful job. It was just one of those times when the stars were properly aligned: the machine was available at a time when I was surprised with a modest unexpected windfall, and the machine was within my price range. Win-win for all concerned.