I currently have a Janome 6600 (love this machine) and an 8900 qcp (still learning the ropes on this one). I traded in my Babylock Espire. Was it a bad machine? No, not at all. Very user friendly. The harp space wasn't great, though and, quite frankly, the Janomes accessories are far more affordable for the most part. In addition, in my area, I prefer the Janome dealers here to our BL store. Personal preference based on personality and customer service. I also feel like the Janomes are a much more solid machine and I like that I can clean my own machine much more easily than I could the Babylock. Keep trying out as many as you can. Kind of like buying a car, it all depends on what you like and what dealership you find yourself comfortable with for servicing. Good luck.