I don't know about the tension wheel Sam, but one word of advice on a new machine.. I don't know your budget, but a few months back I found a Brother XL 3750 on sale at Target.. caught my eye because it had a "quilting package" in the box with the machine.. plus was on sale for only $99. so I snatched it up.. it's an awesome machine.. not real complicated, but has a lot of stuff not on my earlier machines I could not be more pleased with the value I've gotten.. I saw another one there this week same deal, but at regular price which is $141. Still, in my estimation .. and I've been sewing for half of forever.. a fantastic starter machine. And not too heavy to take to a class if need be.