I have a Janome 300E and LOVE LOVE LOVE IT. I've had it for about 3 years now and have never had a machine problem. I like having separate machines because I can sew on one machine and embroider on the other.
Pros: Up to Gigahoop size embroidery, easy to use, quiet, nice built in embroideries, 3 fonts, a real workhorse.
Cons: No thread cutter
For this machine, and it's sister machine the 350E, I STRONGLY suggest getting a wraparound table to help stabilize the hoop.
My only regret is I wish I had bought the 350E instead.
Hope this helps.