I have a Brother 8500 sewing/emb. machine which I love and have loved for many years!! It was the top Brother machine when I bought it new, and I now use Pe-Design 7.0 software with it. Size of hoops 4x4, 5x7, and larger one but has to be spaced, so I haven't used that one. I love the 5x7 with the interlocking monograms from Monogram Wizard Plus! Ask yourself what you really want to embroider or monogram and then look at the possibilites for the right machine and software. That's where the cost comes in! Also, find a good, reliable dealer near you and some of his/her happy customers before you buy. Sometimes this makes a big difference!