I did a search on the Janome 6500 here on the forum and then I saw a video of all the bells and whistles it has. I can't get over that it cuts the thread for you and i love the lock stitch feature and the option for needle down. I've always wanted a Bernina because I sewed on one years ago at community college.

I simply can't afford a Bernina. My question is is the Janome 6500 smooth like the Bernina is? I'm willing to save up for it and should have enough by September for my birthday but if anyone knows of a less expensive machine that's smooth and has all the bells and whistles I'd sure appreciate some suggestions. Thank you ladies. God bless.

i have a 6600 and love it

Have you considered a good used Bernina??? People trade up a lot and you may be able to get a fabulous machine for less.
I don't know anything about Janome's but I do know about Bernina and love mine.

Can't tell you about janomes or berninas, but my babylock espire, sews smooth as butter, has a lot of good features like the 6600

I have a Janome 6600... love it. I think the Janome is a really good "bang for the buck"

I own 2 Janomes and traded one in for my most recent, so have sewn on 3 in all and they are terrific!! Can't say enough good about them. I will buy another if there is a need in the future.

I've sewed on Bernina, Janome, Viking, Pfaff and now Babylock and Brother. Of them all, my favorite machine is hands down Janome! I currently have a Babylock but that is a long story. If I could only have one machine, I guarantee it would be Janome and more than likely, the 6500.

I love my 6600 ..started thinking about Bernina..but for the price..can't beat the Janome

I bought a 4 year old Janome 6600 on Craig's list. Boy did I get a good bargin. I spent three hours with the women, she's a quilter too, and I tried eveything I could on it. I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. Best thing I ever bought. I have had an old White and a Phaff which was so disappointing. I will never let go of my Janome.
Carol

I've got a Janome 6500 and a 3160 QDC. Janomes are great machines.