The Horizon 7700 won't cost you $7,500. You can pick one up for between $1,000 and $1,500 now since they've come out with the new ones with the 9mm stitch width. I bought my Horizon 7700 with a trade in on the 6600. It was worth it, you get 11" harp on the Horizon, 9" on the 6600. Both have the Acufeed, built in walking foot.
The 11,000 is a sewing machine with embroidery. I have that one as well, never use it unless I'm going to embroider something, was a waste because I don't embroider that much. If you're looking for a good machine with a nice big harp on it, the Horizon 7700 is the answer.
With regard to the person that had the problem with the 6500, I hear you, but I had those same problems with the 6600 and that's why I traded it in for the 7700.