Originally Posted by
manicmike
Probably shouldn't say but it was way under the current prices and I got it at a garage sale. Apart from the top decals, it's in amazingly good condition and sews like a dream. Yes I do like sewing with it - extremely smooth.
I also have a 530-2, and it seems almost identical to the 830, but without being worth a gazillion bucks. I don't understand why the 830 is worth so much. There was one in Australia in "as new" condition that
went for over $1,400 last week! Ludicrous that the 530-2 is almost the same machine but is practically worthless (lucky I got it for nothing then, isn't it?).
I have both models as well and the 830 has electronic components in the speed control or foot control that the 530-2 doesn't. It makes for a smoother feeling machine and FMQ's a bit easier and better because of this (IMO). The 830 caught on better with quilters and although I do agree with you that the 530 is a great machine, I'd still pick the 830 over it.