As I said, I didn't want to offend with my comments about Brother. I have read in more than one place that the metal components in a Babylock are plastic in Brother. Just what I have read.
Unfortunately, these are my must haves which have put me into a higher pricepoint:
-Large throat space 10" or higher
-Needle down
-Needle threader
-Automatic thread cutter
-Free motion ability
Having a great dealer close by is not a deal breaker for me. There is a Babylock dealer in town who I would rather not deal with. I am more than happy to drive for this.
I don't know. This will be my third machine and I really just don't want to make another mistake. As for the Aria, it is a TON of money which is what is pushing me away. I followed up with the Bernina dealer today who told me that the machine I would be getting is a current floor model which has only been sewn on for 13 minutes (apparently, Berninas have a counter inside which can tell you this).
My brain says to go with Janome because it is less expensive, but I'm not sure.
Thanks everyone