I bought a 831 a few months ago (same model, but fewer stitches). I have several vintage sewing machine (including a Bernina 730) but the 831 is my absolute favorite for garnement sewing. It is running so smootly and quietly! I was curious to see how well it would FMQ, so I used it this week to quilt a little minky blanket for my son. No tension issue, nice stitches, it behave perfectly. Really a well made sewing machine and a pleasant tool to use.