Hands down best machine for features and price, Janome. The other machines you mentioned are great machines, but to stay in your price range, you would have to give it in some features that come on the Janome. When I was looking, I talked with two machine technicians......janomes are well made and don't show up in repair shop as often as other brands. I purchased a Janome 15000 and love it. I also have a Skyline 7 with auto foot lift..love that one too. Happy hunting!