I researched machines and bought it on reliable consumer advice. It was terrible, could not hold tension- over $2200! So I became a vintage sewing machine person. Learned how to maintain them, clean them (mostly online forum help) and have never looked back. I do not believe any current machine can do a straight stitch for piecing as a vintage one for mechanical reasons like the main shaft being in bore holes and metal gears. They do not jump around and are forgiving of lint and thread. I have Singers 15, 201, 301, 401 (zigzag), and 99 (3/4 size). When I needed a portable one for demos and workshops, I bought a Kenmore 1040- 3/4 size, does zig zags. It is all metal, strong motor and will run for the rest of your life. Comes in a cute white plastic clamshell case. I bought it for a little over $100. Any cheap new machine is a disposable and electrically finicky (circuit boards). I can do without needle down, self threading (had that part replaced 3 times in one year on the expensive P machine), so long as I have a powerful motor and flawless straight stitch. Just keep it oiled and clean. Really.