Originally Posted by
QuiltE
The best way to check how makes/models compare is to look at the specs for each, and compare.
7700 was about the same time period, more bells and whistles.
I looked at it, but there was nothing extra there, that I wanted.
While you speak of problems, there are a lot of people who loved and are still happy with the 7700.
The 8200 and 8900 were updates again, of those earlier machines.
Similar machines, just that the 8900 has more than the 8200.
If I were comparing, I am sure I would zone in on these two over the earlier models.
That being said .... there are more models since those ........
I should have added that I have been looking at pre-owned models rather than new, so overall reliability as long term workhorses is a factor. In the end, I may just save up so that I can buy new and get a full warranty.
I have a pretty good handle on the current Janome hierarchy. (The 9400 and 9450 are beauties, but out of my price range.) As for the 7700, I realize that there have been ups and downs - but many owners love them if they get a good one. Because some of these models have been around for years, the 7700 would be more of a gamble compared to the others.