Must have: Minimum of 8" in the harp area, auto threader, Auto tension with manual over ride, Up/down, auto cutter, more than one light (preferably LED), variable speed, machine durability, ability to sew through heavier material, knee lift, extension table all with a Street price on Black Friday less than $1200.
Nice to have but not a deal breaker, auto bobbin sensor (I know, it's never going to happen in this price range), lots of stitch patterns.
When I made the list I pretty much described a Juki HZL-F600. We do like the Brother NQ series but the NQ1300PRW isn't going to be able to meet the price point even on Black Friday. Not even sure if the NQ900PRW will meet those specs. When you lay it all out like that there seems to be a big arrow pointing toward Juki, BUT the NO Local shop has me pausing at this point.