I did years ago...wanted/needed a new machine and bought a mid range machine. At the end of the weekend, I returned it to the dealer telling him I needed a machine that did more. Long story short, I ended up with a top range machine and have LOVED it ever since then. It was a good choice for me. I too have been sewing for over 50 years and kinda knew what I needed, but resisted the upper price. You need to be comfortable with your machine, you will have it for years....