I had a BL Symphony and now I have an 8900. My Janome dealer took the BL as part of the trade. Part of the reason I did not want the BL has to do with the LQS--however, I also had issues with piecing, etc. I do like the Janome much better in terms of how solid it feels and how it sews. I have had some issues with piecing on it too, but I think I have those figured out. It does much better for me on multiple layers. I like the stitch quality more...in the end, I believe it is going to be personal preference, both of the machine and in your confidence regarding the place from which you purchased it.