Some of the models mentioned in this thread are no longer for sale, except as "previously loved" machines, which are often a great buy. I have a 730 which I use at home and for embroidery, and a 350 I take to classes. I love my 730. My suggestion to you would be to buy the best you can afford. Some of my students have bought the more basic machines, but then ended up trading them in for machines that can embroider, use a BSR, do cut work, etc. Go to Bernina online and look at the features comparison charts, then test drive the ones you are interested in. Don't forget to ask about previously loved machines as you can get more bang for your buck, but please don't buy from auction sites as you may end up with a damaged machine and no store warrantee (as happened to a customer at my LQS recently. She tried to save a few dollars but ended up with a bad machine and no help.) Good luck! You won't regret getting a Bernina.