Almost everyone in my quilt group has Janome Jem Gold 660 machine. Some have had them for over 10 years with no repairs at all. The machine is only $199 on Amazon.
Because of their recommendation, we purchase ten of these machines this summer for our after school sewing program.
http://www.amazon.com/Janome-Jem-Gol.../dp/B000FLH2VE
Hope you find something you like.