katsparrow

Well, I've only used the Janome and Juki dx7 (along with other machines) in the shops- so my personal experience is limited to dabbling with those and comparing to my Brother NQ900 (and Juki TL2010Q). My impression is that machines like the Skyline, Juki dx7, and NQ900 (as well as the comparable Baby Lock) seem to be about the same in terms of power and features. But I haven't used the other machines extensively enough to know for sure about their power compared to the NQ900- it's just how it seemed to me. So if other people have more experience comparing those then that's info to consider.

Then, I'd say that hands down the Juki TL2010Q (and the similar semi-industrial straight stich/lockstich machines I've tried in the shops, by Janome, Brother, or Baby Lock) are definitely more powerful than NQ900 and the similar machines, and can handle the heavier duty sewing better, like bag making. I've only done relatively light bag making, like a couple layers of canvas or leather/leather-like material. The NQ900 could handle it, with care, but in comparison the Juki handles it way more easily. When I say heavy duty for bags- I'm not a bag making expert, but from my experience and the classes and discussions I've followed, I think of that as very thick leather/vinyl, multiple layers of canvas, more than I ever do. Whenever I see people doing that level of heavy duty materials, they're always using a semi-industrial (if not industrial) machine. So I'm not sure if a machine like the NQ900 (or Skyline or dx7) would handle it without too much strain. Also, it's possible the NQ900 etc. could handle some heavy duty stuff if it was done very carefully and infrequently- I've never tested that out.

Yeah, there are pros and cons to weigh, and we usually need to make compromises somewhere! My impression based on what you've shared is that you'd probably be very happy with something like the NQ900, Skyline or dx7 machines. One of those types would probably suit your needs best overall. Since the dx7 has the little toggle for the straight stitch plate-- I know that seems like a tiny feature- but for me, that's near the top of my list of what sets it apart from the others of its class. I just can't stand switching out the entire plate on the NQ900! So if you do much quilting, or sewing lightweight or delicate fabrics, or just don't want fabric sucked down into the feed dogs... that tiny toggle is something to take seriously! Lol. I think a Janome I tried had an quick change snap into place magnetic straight stitch plate- so you still had to switch out the whole plate, but it was much easier than my NQ900. Anyway just something to note, in case that little feature ends up mattering to you as it does to me, far more than expected! But those are all good machines! I'm really curious what you'll choose- be sure to update us!