Another tidbit, google "long arm rentals" That is what I did when I decided I wasnt going to quilt on a DSM
I found 2 places close to me (under 1hr drive) that rented their long arms for use. They will make you take a beginners class, basically expect to pay $100 or so upfront for the class. Definitely worth it to know if you actually will WANT to work on one before sinking the money into it. Also gives you a feel for what options you absolutely need and what options are worth the "upgrade" later. Then go test out the machines at a show.
I learned on a Prodigy 24in throat. It was a nice machine and ran well. I ended up buying an Innova 22in and am in love! I loved the options I got with this machine. But without actually putting hands on a machine and testing it, I would never sink the kind of money on one.
