Here is how the Brother/Babylock arrangement was explained to me, by several people. Brother makes their own machines, good well made ones and a much cheaper line that some consider "disposable". Brother sewing Machine Co. also makes Babylock for the Tacony Company who actually sell Babylock machines. These are made to a higher standard, better welds, electrical circuits, etc. I was told this by people in the sewing machine business. I assume that it is true.