Repeating what has been said, go to a quilt show and try out all the machines. There is no way to know which is right for you until you are standing in front of a machine with your hands guiding it. I travelled for a day (and crossed the border) to attend Sew Expo in Puyallup 18 months ago, because it is the biggest show around.
So even if the traffic around Paducah is terrible, it is time well spent to get there and try the machines. Take a notebook and make notes as you go. Believe me you will not remember everything you are told nor your own thoughts after trying more than 2 machines.
Do not feel pressured to buy at the show. Ask the dealers how long after the show will they honour the show price. After checking out two machines, go sit down, how a cup of tea/coffee and record your thoughts and feelings. If you go with a friend or spouse, remember that you are the one who will be using the machine, listen to their comments, but go with your heart.
When I was at Sew Expo, I had three days to check out the machines. I first did a scout around, then made my plan. In the end I did not buy at the show, I had no intention of doing that. I was looking at a three (not 2) year plan to buy. But I have to say that the people at the HandiQuilter booth and the Gammil booth were the nicest people to chat with. Hands down one lady at the HQ booth was the best sales person in the show. She answered questions I did not know I needed to ask.
Where I live I have HQ dealers (one hour north or south), APQS about 8 hours away (I live on an island).
Last May I was checking out the local online classifieds. I found an older HQ 16 at a price that felt right to me. I was one of 5 people interested and the first to show up with cash in hand. In two years I may still upgrade or I may stick with what I have.
Best thing ever, the wonderful woman at the HQ booth that answered all my questions, is teaching at the dealer south of me next month. I get to take 2 full days of workshops from her. I am a happy quilter.