I second the advice about shopping around and 'test driving' machines. If you are looking for a large harp, basic straight stitch machine that stitches beautifully, consider a Juki TL2010q. Only straight stitch, but has speed control (a MUST for me), thread cutter in foot pedal and knee lever lift. No bells or whistles, just a fabulous workhorse of a machine. About $1,000.