I have a sweet 16 sit down. I tried long arm machines, but I discovered I really like the feel of fabric in my hands! It just feels "right". I have had no trouble with my machine, and I have used just about every type of thread possible including metallics. You have to get comfortable adjusting tensions,but that is a small price to pay for the variety you can use. I didn't get the stitch regulator -with practice you can quilt well without one, I am sure it would speed up the learning some, but the $1000 can cover a lot of practice!
Pam