I just bought my daughter a Janome Mangnolia 7330. I think it was 500.00 from a local quilt shop w/all the extra feet. I wanted her to get it from there because she is in NY and I'm in GA and wanted her to have all the help that comes with it/warranty/repair/service,etc.
However, you dont' need to spend this much either, as it has extras that you don't have to have.
However, I have a Janome Quilter's Companion Memory Craft 4800 from 2003 and have really enjoyed it. I paid 900.00 for it way back then. Again, you don't need all of this.
Like I say, I got both of ours from local establishments. Just take your time deciding.
(most name brands have basic models. I got my daughter a step up because I knew she'd grow into it. You can begin with a good basic machine and then get another w/all the stitches,etc later on...)I've found that Janome is just as good as other top names w/out the price.... Good luck. Sandra