Bernina girl here. I have used the same one for 40 years and inherited another one from DMIL. I recently acquired a new Bernette because I wanted more than 20 decorative stitches, but I still use the old reliable for everyday! Also the Q16 sit down long arm--it was easy learning curve. Too bad you don't live near south Texas. I have a 5th machine sitting in the corner-- Bernina Industrial that I don't use and is for sale.