Looking for machine advice
I currently have a Brother PC-8500 that I bought used several years ago from a reputable shop. I have loved every single second with this wonderful machine, but about four years ago I took it to a different shop for a cleaning. I'm not sure what happened, but the machine has never been right since. When I went back and complained, I was told that the machine is so old it's not really repairable - and that I should consider buying a new machine. I checked around, and it's true that it's impossible to get the parts for the PC-8500, so I did buy another machine, though from a third shop, which I really liked (Brother Innov-Is 2500D) but I began to worry about it - I think it was also used, but sold to me as new - and I sold it and went back to the PC-8500. I can't use the thread cutter because the machine doesn't sew right until I turn it off and "reset" it. This means I can't use the embroidery unit either - which is not a big loss to me because I never used it that much anyway. I believe that machines are like people, and you have to have a good chemistry with them. I know that sounds ridiculous, but until I bought the PC-8500, I never really did much sewing even though I'd had sewing machines for years prior.
But now I'm getting tired of having to remember not to push "this" button or "that" button to keep my machine working, and I feel it's time to retire her for good. I am a Brother fanatic, but since I'm considering buying a new machine, I feel like I should consider all the angles. I'm looking to keep my cost below $2,000, and while I know that many quilters love the older machines such as the Featherweight, it just doesn't do a lot for me. I probably won't be buying anything till after the first of the year, so I'm in no rush and I have every intention of trying out several machines. I've read threads here about different machines, but it's not always clear why folks like a certain machine - maybe they just can't put words to it; I can understand that! But if anyone has any suggestions for a good, heavy duty quilting/sewing machine, I would be most grateful ...
Thanks!