I have a Janome Jem Platinum which I take to classes and retreats. I love it. It works like a dream and I have never had a bit of problem with it except for the time I hit a pin and knocked off the timing, but once repaired it worked beautifully again. It's small and light enough to carry with you easily. I even took it on a driving trip from my home in Central Texas to Indianapolis where I took a class at a quilt shop while my husband was attending a convention. That was such fun and the Janome was perfect for that trip.
I have also given my two daughters each a Janome Jem Gold. Neither of them does much sewing, so didn't need a big fancy machine. These little machines are made well and can take on the jobs my daughters have, whether it be making curtains or repairing hems.