Originally Posted by Prism99
You can certainly fmq on this machine! (You can fmq on almost any domestic sewing machine, even the ones that won't drop the feed dogs. In that case, you can cover the feed dogs.) It is a great machine. I almost bought one, but I already have a great Bernina 1230 and could not justify the additional expense. The Janome has a larger area under the arm, which makes fmq easier for large quilts, has a much larger flatbed, and it has the automatic thread cutter I covet. The only thing it doesn't have is a free arm for sewing cuffs and pant legs.
I'm pretty sure a Bernina with the stitch regulator would cost a *lot* more than the Janome 6600.
A lot of quilters on this forum have the Janome 6600 and really like it, so I think your dh did well (except for not consulting you first!).
With some practice, you'll be able to quilt just as well as if you had a stitch regulator. Make up some quilt 'sandwiches'(like about 12" sq.) with left over fabric or some you've hung on to and don't really like anymore. Take a few minutes every day to practice FMQ and you'll be more confident in no time!