I’ve had a Baby Lock Crescendo for about five years, and I couldn’t be happier with it. I was relatively new to sewing/quilting when I got it, but I never felt overwhelmed or like it was “too much machine.” It’s also not a difficult machine, so there’s not a huge learning curve.
Having said that, I think your relationship with the dealer is as (or more) important as the brand you buy, so make sure you buy from someone you’re happy with.