I just ordered the Brother PE 700II from Costco for $589+tax and it comes with thread, stabilizer and some pre-loaded bobbins.
I really want a machine with a larger hoop, better screen, etc. but I don't have $3k to pay for it, so I figured I'd go with more of a starter machine to learn on and save my money for when I outgrow it. The Brother PE700II at Costco was the best machine for the best price that offered a 5x7 hoop, expandable to 5x12, rotation in 1 degree increments, etc.
Good luck in your search!