I have a 7550 that I bought about a year or so ago from a friend who was buying an even newer, better Pfaff. She has both a Pfaff and a Bernina as do I and I would have a hard time choosing between the two if I had to get rid of one. She had taken very good care of it. I love it especially for the built in IDT. I have always struggled to get a walking foot on a machine but maybe that is just me. Anyway, I don't know about the motherboard problem so maybe you should call the shop to inquire what was done to the machine. I don't think you can go wrong with the machine otherwise. I find that it really pieces nicely. I only paid $300 for mine and she threw in a nice table to go with it. I think she just wanted it gone so offered it to friends. Good luck with your decision.