You can't use one frame with the other machine. I had the Pfaff Grandquilter, and personally, would NEVER consider buying one. I know others have had good luck with them, but I didn't. I also did not have local dealership. I bought the Avante....the frame is made ONLY for the Avante. The same is said for the stitch regulator (on the Pfaff the SR is made for 6 or so different machines -- it's a generic). I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Avante and you're right, that extra bar back there has made my quilting go much faster. Moving those rollers up and down gets very tiring. Don't let them fool you!!! I'm in my 60s and to be truthful, if you're doing a quick meandering, you'll find yourself moving them up every 5 minutes or so!!!!! If you have a local dealer for the Avante, I'd go that way.
On edit ---- the Avante frame also has a wheel for rolling the quilt --- THAT is a blessing!!!!!!
Last edited by amandasgramma; 12-18-2012 at 07:33 AM.