I have bought several Janomes, and loved them all. I have a 6600P, which is a wonderful quilting machine and is a true workhorse. I had a 7700, which was fantastic for about 3 years, and then I upgraded it to an 8900 a year ago. I absolutely love my 8900, with the extra harp for fmq, and once I found the right thread combination, all the stitches are perfectly balanced. I kept the 6600 as my back-up machine, and wouldn't dream of trading it in (I've had it for about 10 years). I agree with keeping the embroidery unit separate from the main sewing/quilting unit. I do take my machines in to my dealer for their annual servicing, and that keeps them in good, working condition. Good luck finding the Janome that is right for you!