Since you are looking at several brands, I would first find out what dealers are in your area. Check them out and don't let them upsale you for fancy stitches ect. If you want to be sort of anonymous, plan on going to a large quilt show. It's a great place to try them out. I love my Juki 2010Q especially the cutter in the foot and the knee lift. But I wouldn't call it a quiet machine. Test drive a few and I'm sure one will stand out either in price or features.