I've owned a Kenmore, Janome MC3500, Janome DC3050, Singer, and Babylock Esante Ese2. The Kenmore I bought 26 years ago and still runs like a dream. The Janome MC3500 I bought about 10 years ago and love, love, love it. I cry when I have to leave it for a tune up. I bought my daughter the DC and she only used it a few times, not much into sewing, so it's now mine! lol. Love it too. The Babylock is a sewing / embroidery machine and I never really used the embroidery features so I sold it last year. I don't miss it.
I highly recommend the Janome. Today, I went and bought the walking foot and free motion foot but haven't tried them yet.
You have to fall in love with the machine, so don't be hasty when purchasing. I like a "heavy" machine and one that really grips the fabric, can turn corners easily, and smooth sews when slow or fast sewing. I haven't had any issues with my Janome's or Kenmore. The Singer is also a sturdy machine but how many can you use at one time?
