I got a George about 5 months ago and absolutely love it...I was quilting on a longarm for a lady that owned her own fabric shop...I did most of her customers longarming...all I need is the ruler foot for the George and rulers and I'm off to wonderland...Where I was working, she retired and sold all her fabric and longarm....so I had no where to quilt my quilts, so I got the George...fantastic service and APQS will walk you thru whatever problems that may arise. I'm not familiar with the HQ machines...but sitting in front of George is very rewarding...and their bobbin winder is one of the best...a little expensive but so worth it...