My husband got me one for Christmas and I have used it once, mainly because I don't have any dies yet. However, the one time I have used it I was MAJORLY impressed with how quickly I was able to cut all the fabric! I purchased the DWR die this weekend, and should have it next week, so I will let you know how it goes.
As far as the dies to get, for me the top list has been the 6 1/2 in block, the DWR die set and the 2 1/2 in strips. Part of the trouble with the DWR pattern is making sure everything is cut just right- this seems like it will save me a lot of trouble. The 2 1/2 strips will let me do jelly roll quilts and make my own binding pretty easily. I also want the Tumbler die, and the drunkards path...
I think it also depends on if you do alot of applique or more traditional quilts. I agonized over buying the DWR die because it is so expensive- but I also have 3 weddings this year and all of them want a quilt as a gift. So I feel I will get my moneys worth out of it. I don't do as much applique as some, so a lot of those dies are useless to me. Same with some of the traditional patterns if you are only planning on making it once or twice.
Has anyone ever considered an Accuquilt die rental? Or maybe a swap every now and then? If you know of any let me know!