I have a Janome 3160 that I loved for classes....it has the auto thread cutter...I really need that for classes, since you are always piecing in classes, more than quilting. Then I purchased the 4120...really nice too. Both of these machines are lightweight...11-12 lbs. I have a 6600 at the cabin and 8900 at home....very heavy machines! Janome sewing machines are great, but Babylock has the best sergers.....off topic... I hope you find a great machine for your price range. Call you dealers, sometimes they discount show machines with warranties in tact.