Hello from Howell Michigan! My first machine was a Bernina...loved it! When it died after lots and lots of use I decided it was time or a upgrade. I wanted another Bernina but we don't have a dealer near here and I was tired of driving to get it cleaned,ect. I bought a janome 6600 from the local qs and love it! The sewing table that comes with it is great and I think the throat space is a little bigger. Test drive both brands a choose what's best for you!