It sounds like you already know the features you like and would like in a new machine, which is a good start. I am a Janome gal and love my machine, and have worked up to the machine I currently have, starting with a smaller machine, and much like you, outgrew it and upgraded. Have you considered any of the machines from the Eversew line, very reasonable price, lots of great features, and a good amount of throat space on the larger one. Good luck in your search, keep us posted when you finally decide. How exciting.