I have the 6500 and it is a WORKHORSE! Over Christmas vacation my sewing buddy and I were making each other a bag to haul all our sewing supplies. We saw it on Fons and Porter. There were places in that bag where you were sewing over 10 layers, including batting. I had to put our high end machines to the side and get out the 6500. It sewing through those straps like a knife through hot butter. I will never get rid of that machine. Providing the one you are going to buy is in good working order...you have a steal there!!! Go for it! Michelle