Since you already have the Brother VQ2400 tkae a look at the smaller Brother machines. Like Patrice, I have the Brother PC420PRW. It is light enough to carry to classes, etc. has the thread cutter, start stop button, variable speed control, programable needle up or down, and also Has beautiful decorative stitches, as well as utility stitches, fmqs beautifully and comes with a hard case that provides great protection when travelling. It also has other neat features that you have on the VQ2400 like pattern mirroring, the ability to combine decorative s5itches or to create your own decorative stitches, presser foot pressure is adjustable which is helpful when sewing sheer or heavy fabrics. It is the same machine that used to be sold by the dealers as the NX400.
They can be usually be found in the $400-$600 range, though I got a second one from Home Depot this past fall For $320.
Rob