I was a huge Janome fan until I tried a Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 at the Edinburgh Quilt Show. As well as the IDT, the auto-pivot function sold me straight away (I do a lot of machine appliqué and the luxury of not having to lift that presser foot up and down..... even for straight seams and piecing it's a joy!).
We got off to quite a sticky start (my first one was faulty and was replaced by a new one) and I too lost a bit of confidence and didn't 'gel' with it at first. I also bought the Passport when it came out, but have been so spoilt with the auto-pivot I sold it
I'd never buy a machine without this function now. I recently bought the Performance 5 which allows you to design your own stitches. Love it!
I spoke to the Janome rep at the Birmingham Quilt Show and suggested they introduce a machine with this function. At the moment they only have auto-pivot on their 1500 embroidery machine which I think retails for £6,500....
I'd suggest you try a Pfaff and see what you think. Good luck!