My machine - Elna Excellence 720 - has a wider throat but I still quilt-as-you-go and quilt larger quilts in sections. Before you spend on a new machine, why not see if you enjoy FMQing? I have had quite a few FMQ classes over the years and finally decided I don't like it that much. I do it sometimes, but find it stressful, and I really prefer to use my walking foot. If I feel I want the look of FMQ, I take larger quilts to a long armer. Just a thought! Good luck!