I was in the market for a machine with a 9" throat a couple years ago. I think the Brother 1500 had just come out and I couldn't find it for less than a thousand dollars. After going to every dealer and shop in town I figured I'd never be able to afford such a nice machine. Then I met Raquel. She is a 1954 Singer 66. Her throat measures 9 inches wide and 6 inches tall. She's a dream to quilt on. I've never been so satisfied with my machine quilting. I haven't started FMQ on her yet, but I did start piecing on her so I can get used to where her 1/4" is. I got her as a Mother's Day gift and the machine, all the attachments, & walking foot was less than 250.00.