I have my Designer 1 from 2000 and a SE........I still like my Des 1. I think the price is right if it does the emb. A d if not you would be getting a good machine with lots of stitches for little money. One problem to consider is the software, I have 4-D and when my computer crashed this winter I had trouble finding compatible operating system with my software. Also I think it is imperative that you sew with others, for support. Perhaps a dealer in your area would offer at. Reasonable price classes to learn to use it. Calla