I'm weird, for piecing I like it above, for FMQ I like it in, the reason is when I remove the tray or need the free arm if it is recessed you don't have access so I would say if you are going to do it make sure you can also use it out side of the hole as well. I do have to say that I miss my extension table that I had on my old machine that my upgrade didn't come with. Those are awesome for classes even though I probably wont lug my heavy machine to big classes it is indespensible for FMQ classes