Hi, I am a Janome gal. I also worked with a group (30 to 50) making quilts and I was the one helping with all the machine issues. The ones that had no problems (with the exception of user error) were the Janomes. I have had my 6600 for 7 years and have never had one problem with it. I call it my work horse and will never part with it. My hubby bought me the 8900 last spring for Mother's day gift because of more lighting and the 11 inch harp compared to the 9 on my 6600. I love it for free motion quilting with more space. Both machines are top shelf in my book, and that is my opinion......good luck.