I bought the Ellageo esg3 (now antiquated) and paid around $5,000 in 2002. Since that time, I have been very interested in quilting, and have done a few as a result of my best friend's (BarbTx) teaching skills. I'm an old lady, certainly not a wealthy one........but I would love to get either the Crescendo or the Aria. I was told the Aria is the better one for "old eyes" because of the advanced lighting. Please give me pro and con on the Crescendo, as well as the Aria. This will definitely be my last machine, as I'm in my mid 70's.