Amandasgramma, Am I correct in saying that HQ also makes the BL, just as TL makes Pfaff/Viking? The BL Crown Jewel is on my list of possible long arm purchases. It's just like the Avante, but less expensive and there's a dealer near me (he doesn't offer classes on the machine though).
PumpkinPatch, I know what you mean about changing your mind and considering different machines all the time. I'm somewhat embarrassed by how indecisive I've been about machines. Eventually we'll both just have to make a decision and not look back!