My machine for taking to class is the Janome 3160 -- I use the Janome 7700 at home. My friend and quilting buddy uses the 3160 as her main machine. It has needle up/down, a thread cutter, and all the fun things that my big machine has but is only about 12 pounds. It is a bit more expensive than what you were looking at but you may be able to find it used for less.