I don't have any personal experience, but these websites seem to offer some insight into the Aria. I know some quilters on the QB love their Dreamweaver and Crescendo machines:
http://sewing.patternreview.com/Sewi...ns/topic/90224
I love my (now almost vintage) Bernina 1230, but I have my doubts that I would be willing to pay for the new Bernina 700 and 800 machines simply because of the cost. I do love the "purr" of my Bernina, though. If my 1230 ever gave up the ghost and the 740 had that "purr", I admit I would be sorely tempted.
I sewed only briefly on a Janome several years ago (not the 8900, but at that time the current top of the line). While it's features were impressive, I simply did not feel comfortable with the machine. This is where I think purchasing a sewing machine becomes personal in much the same way that buying a car does. Gut response to the machine means a lot!