Now this is a very subjective question... I would get a vintage straight stitch machine to piece and FMQ on - and get an embroidery only machine. :D

What dealers are closest to you? That is a very important issue when purchasing a machine IMHO. If you like them, spend some time trying machines out. Sometimes a dealer can point you to a better deal or even have some refurbished machines which usually come with a full warranty. I think any Janome, especially the 6500, is a good machine.

If you can afford it I would go for a Bernina or Viking :) You can get good deals on used ones via Craigslist or ebay. I haven't used any other brands so I can't comment on other ones.

A Dealer close by for any future needs is priceless. I would make a little quilt sandwich and take that & go try out several brands. That will help you decide. I love my Bernina's and the Dealer has been a joy to work with as well as all of the Sales folks. I wish you the best of luck in finding your perfect machine. Let us know what you choose. And hug that man for footing the bill. lol

Now I am bummed.

I called the LQS and they said that it will be about $70 to clean the machine, then they would trouble shoot the problem. She basically said that it was not worth trying to fix. :(

Actually, I am not attached to the machine, I was just hoping to get a few more months out of it before I spent money on a new one. SIGH.

Maybe it just needs cleaning andcheckup. My Brother did same until I had it serviced

Are you sure she just wasnt trying to sell you a new machine? Try calling another shop and see what they say before you throw in the towel.

the last Brother I had would have cost more to have cleaned than I paid for the machine - so she probably wasn't "just" trying to sell you a new machine - although I'm sure she wouldn't complain :)

I know.... I think she was trying to sell me a machine... which I would happily buy, but it just is not in our budget to do TODAY.

I guess I will give the old girl another once over.... she does sew but sounds horrible.

Guess I can practice using my treadle to finish my apron.

I'd figure out just what I wanted the new machine to do, and my price range and I'd look on ebay.