I've been in your shoes! I wanted something that I could use when my Bernina was in the shop, for classes and retreats.
The problem became what I was used to and expected of a sewing machine. I tried a couple of different Janomes, sold both fairly quickly. They are all plastic, nowhere near the power of a Bernina. I was used to being able to stitch through anything with no hesitation. Janome didn't do it.
Then I tried a FW. It was okay. I kept it a lot longer than the Janomes.
Eventually, I realized that I wanted another Bernina. That way, all of the feet and bobbins I have could be used (my machine is a 5mm, so no wide feet). The 3/4 size machines are a perfect fit for me. I bought a 240 (long since discontinued) and like it very much. It now resides in our FL home so that I don't have to bring a machine back and forth.
My travel/backup machine now is a 350 and I LOVE it. I do not quilt anything larger than a baby quilt; my shoulders will not allow the pushing/pulling/adjusting that is necessary, so I quilt by check. For piecing and occasional garment sewing, the 350 is ideal. Yes, the throat is smaller, but that isn't an issue for piecing.
I would look for one of the 3/4 size Bernina's, possibly a used one. It is absolutely the best of both worlds.