I really think that the most important thing in choicing a machine is to choice a dealer that you can work with. You will want to have owners classes, a dealer that stands by what they sell. Some shops will offer a free first year cleaning/tune up. I work in a quilt store and see too many frustrated sewers who have bought their machine and never learn to use it, or buy a cheap machine that is worthless and takes away all they fun they should be having.
That said, I don't own a Husqvarna Viking, but the shop I work in sells them and after seeing them and how the company stands by them I have one on my wish list. Have fun shopping!