I have to admit, I love My Janome with all its bells and whistles. My must haves are needle up/down, knee lift, 1/4 inch foot. All my stitches are a bonus and throat size. I feel these all make my quilting experience a good one and am so glad they are available. I also enjoy reading about others must haves, or reasons why they prefer a vintage machine, it just shows how we all enjoy the same hobby but in our own unique ways.