I was in this same position when I was looking to upgrade my symphony. I was torn between the aria and the crescendo. Essentially the same machine but the crescendo has the laser light and sensor pen. Ultimately I decided on the crescendo because I am a gadgets girl and knew that eventually I would want the pen and laser. Also in my area the price difference was $1000 and the aria didn't come with the extension table and I was told not the digital dual feed foot. Two features that were a must for me and the cost to purchase them was almost $400. Bringing the difference to $600 so for me it made sense to button he crescendo.