I have the Janome 4120 and I love it. It has the needle down position that I use all the time, also the automatic threader which is great. It has fancy stitches that I seldom use but love the blanket stitch. I too don't need all the fancy stuff but I did buy the darning foot and the walking foot which I use occasionally. Check into that model. It has good speed control and very good lighting. I also agree that you should buy from a local dealer.