If you buy at the expo, will you be able to get the classes and extras that come with purchasing from a dealer? I bought my machines from a dealer...they have been really good about doing my servicing more quickly since I bought from them. Sometimes they have 3 week waits for their servicing work! Also, have you looked at the latest Pfaff's? They are amazing. I have a 2048 Quilt Expression. I also have a
Bernina 440 QEE, which I love. It doesn't have the IDT that the Pfaff does, and if it's a must, then you won't be happy with a Bernina. It does have the stitch regulator, and I have had no problems with it feeding material thru.