I bought a Janome 6600 last spring after my husband jerry-rigged a new motor on my lifelong favorite sewing machine, my trusty Bernina 831. He was afraid we couldn't find a new motor again, and urged me to get a second machine to fill my needs. I love the needle down, the decorative stitches, the larger area to the right of the foot, the built in auto feed option, the 1/4 inch foot, the knee lift lever. The machine has been quite good for me and my sewing needs are nearly 100% patchwork and quilting. I am happy to have a reliable dealer near me as a resource. I would like the auto needle threading feature if I could just get the hang of it - it is a little frustrating. The thing I like the least is how hard it is to change feet and needles- my Bernina spoiled me, I guess, because everything was so accessible and easy to get to. Good luck and Happy sewing!