I'm actually not planning to rent anytime soon, just thinking it would be good to take a few lessons to see if I even like longarming and want to pursue a machine in the future. When I've tried them at quilt shows it's just been overwhelming with everyone milling about, watching, etc.
Kind of like when DH took some woodturning classes - they were taught on a much higher end lathe than he would ever buy, but learning the basics helped him figure out what he needed, what kind of projects he wanted to do, etc.
How do most people learn about longarms, whether they like them, want to get one, know enough to do proper test "drives" when it's time to buy, etc.?
I learned to longarm at my LQS. They had a class and then rented time after you qualified with the class. Their first machine was a Nolting with no stitch regulator. They later upgraded to a Gammill with no stitch regulator. After using those machines, we moved and I started looking for a machine. I tried many machines (particularly at large shows- which is a great place to try many machines). I tried a HandiQuilter, a Tin Lizzie at a dealer, and a couple of others.
As I was looking, someone suggested trying the Innova. I tried it and fell in love. It is made by a company that makes commercial quilting machines. It is made it in the US. (So is APQS.) I like the following about my Innova: it is relatively lightweight, it is very low maintenance, there is 24/7 phone support, it is easy to upgrade without having to buy a new head for most upgrades. FYI: They are based in Montgomery, Texas. They are reasonably priced.