I was very tempted to buy a LA with a small frame but resisted because it limits you as to the size quilt you can work on. I bought a HQ 16 used with a frame that is 9 ft. I know, that's an odd size but it's what the machine came with and the price was better than what I could ever buy new. But, even at 9 ft., I'm limited to size. I quilted a large Queen a month ago and had to take the quilt off the frame and reposition to do the sides. I really wish I had a longer frame. That small frame would drive me crazy.