I had the HQ16 with the ProStitcher. It came with QuildCad but I could never get it to work for me (the QuiltCad SW part). The HQ worked great with purchased patterns. And yes, it does cost around 10K to get a new updated system. They do not have anything new for the old version. I have decided to just keep the old system on my new HQ18 Avante and it works great, just not all the great new features. I am not using for a living so will keep my old setup. If I were you, I would work with a local dealer or go to a big show and see what kind of deal you could get to upgrade from the 16--the extra stitching room is great.