I agree to get the best you can afford. I have a Bernina QE 440 and after having it for a month, I got the embroidery module for it. I love it!!!! I have had so much fun making different things for the family, a few are posted on the pics site. I can use a small, medium and large hoop. There is also a mega hoop, but a bit pricey so that will have to wait. Mine can quilt a quilt also, which is what sold me on the embroidery module.
If I had the money, I might have a dedicated embroidery machine, so I could have both the sewing and embroidery machine set up at the same time, but for the money, I am verrrrry happy with my Bernina and it's embroidery module.
Good luck with whatever you choose. I am sure that there are some great deals out there to be had, last years model or demo models. Let us know what you decide.