I have the 420 but I use the 1500 more. It straight stitches only but has the 9" throat. Unless you have used the 9" you don't know how GOOD it is both for piecing and quilting. Since most quilting is just straight stitching you can get a lot of use with it. I only have done lap size but it helps with the center out to have the larger size. I got both of mine from All Brands around $599. It has the needle up down and thread cutter.