I have been wondering the same question. I have a "walmart special" cheapo machine that is a Brother. I have had it for 4 years the poor thing has never been to the shop, I clean it here at the house and no matter what I do to the poor thing it keeps working and has never caused me any trouble. SO I was going to just stay with the Brother brand. But after reading what Minnow wrote I am scared <nail biting>. I just looked and I can get the Juki online cheaper than I can get the Brother online or at my local dealer.
I DON'T KNOW!!!!!
Thank you Joan for asking this question!