Bernina DOES support their current and past models. The shop should have no problem supporting the Chicago 7, which they sell to you. That said, I'd rather have the 440 for all types of sewing including quilting. It does require being connected to a computer for embroidery, which is a hassle for some. The Artista 630 can embroider with designs from a USB stick. I have both actually, bought used. They are both solid, wonderful sewing machines. The 630 has some niceties I've come to prefer: the larger, color screen, the smooth-action knobs to adjust stitch length and width, and the security setting, to disable zig-zag stitches when the straight stitch plate is on.
The newer models have improved lighting, but there's currently no 5.5mm stitch width model which does embroidery. IMO, the 630 is the ultimate Bernina, with the most features they ever put on a 5.5mm/CB hook machine. I love it, and wouldn't trade it for any new model.
DISCLAIMER: I don't do machine embroidery. Best of luck in your shopping.