There is always a reason for a new machine. Sometimes we out grow our machines, sometimes they break down and sometimes we absolutely need a full color touch screen, ya know for our eye health and stuff. The 6500 is a great machine, but I’m with the other responders, if you are going to invest buy 6600. You’ll have the built in accufeed which is fabulous and you ‘ll have a start stop button. Check with you’re local dealers for used ones. Many quilters are trading in their 6600s for 8900s. The 6600 even when used is a work horse and will last a lifetime. When buying a machine this large buy it from a dealer and a close dealer. Don’t buy the knock off singer one on amazon because if you need help or warranty work you’ll have no one that can help you immediately. Labor warranty work has to be done by the dealer who sold it to you. Your dealer can make all the difference.