There are no perfect machines that I have been able to find. It's a matter of trying them out and finding the one that suits your sewing needs best. If you are machine quilting large quilts, you will need a machine with as much harp space as possible. If you are just a piecer, you will have more options. Currently I am looking at the Juki Exceed 600 or the Juki TL2010Q which are both in your price range. I am presently stitching on a Janome 6500 which most people love but I have had a lot of trouble with it so I don't want another Janome. Good luck in the search.