I too prefer to have my machine inset into the table. When I bought my Pfaff 7570 in 2000 it came with a Koala quilting cabinet with the lift mechanism. I love it. I also have a featherweight and 2 Singer 301's. I have been lucky enough to have card tables for them that also allow me to have the machine inset into the table. Even without the autolift feature I would prefer the machine to be inset. I rarely have need for the free arm but I still would prefer the inset table.