Here's a different idea .... check sales listings for used long arms and used embroidery units!! Perhaps you can get both for the price of the Bernina and keep your old (but still good) Bernina. There are LOTS of good used long arms in the $4 - $6 thousand range, and a decent embroidery machine (even new) can be had for a few thousand.
But, if you have not yet tried a long arm, get to a show or a dealer and at least get your hands on one to make sure you like the transition from moving the fabric to moving the machine.