I have a couple of computerized machines....very nice....but I recently purchased a Janome HD3000 mechanical. I love it!!! no computerized anything in it so no pricey motherboards to be replaced! I wouldn't want to N O T have a computerized machine, as they have lots of bells and whistles (wish mine had more...lol) but my Janome HD3000 is the one I use most of the time now. From what you've described about your sewing needs it sounds like a mechanical will do you just fine.