I have had my Pfaff Expression 2. for three years, and I love it. I have always been a seamstress, but I have only been quilting for three years and I don't really know any of the other machines. I test drove Janome and something else, but I liked the "built in walking foot" and throat size of this machine. I was very new to the idea of an expensive machine, but I have had no regrets about my Pfaff. I love it.
I was determined to only buy locally so I could get service and have questions answered. Classes came with the machine, but I only went to the first six or so....there was one a month for as long as I wanted to go.
I would suggest you test drive all you can. The machine has to be one that really suits you.
But I love my Pfaff.
Dina