I've had several different brands of machines. I bought a Viking Rose on ebay. It was fine but I never learned how to embroider because the local folks didn't like it that I hadn't bought it from them. Buying locally and knowing your service department is important. Anyway, I did some research on FMQ. Bought the Bernina 440. I like it, but realized that I did want to do embroidery. Traded it in on a Bernina 580. I LOVE THIS MACHINE! Since then, I've bought the 1150 serger (what fun!), and now added the 330 for traveling. When you spend this much on a machine, take it in immediately if you have a problem. They have warranties. BTW, Bernina is coming out with a new line in the fall. If you live where the store takes trade-ins, they should have some great deals on used machines at that time.