I'm in need of a new machine and do a lot of machine quilting. Would like input on the lowest price anyone has found on a machine with a wider harp. This would help me decide if I can afford one. So far, I got one price at $1500.. I can't do that.

Many board members including me have the Brother 1500. Got mine at Allbrands for 599.00 with free shipping. Not sure how big of a throat you are looking for but this one is 9". Many people are very happy with it. It is a straight stitch only machine, but really what more do you need when quilting.

i have a juki TL98Q, now the 2010 i think. it's a great machine for piecing and quilting and i also used it on my frame. it's just a straight stitch machine, but that's one thing i like about it.

I agree but I got mine from Amazon for $600 /free shipping/ no tax and easy return policy. Love the machine for both piecing adn FMQ! Go to LQS and test sew machines to find what you want then go on line to buy.

Look at juki all their new models have a 9 inch throat I think.

if you want an 11 inch throat, check with local dealers to see if they have any trade-ins. You may have to wait, but the extra 2 inches my be worth it to you. You can also advertise on Craig's list and other free advertising sites that you're looking for a large throat machine. If so, I'd make sure that the sale would not be final until a repair person you trust has checked it out and OK'd it...

Ditto the Brother 1500S. You would think I got a kick back for all the good things I say about this machine, but I've had it for over three years with constant heavy use and never had a problem.

Brother PQ1500s runs about 600 I think the juki's run about 8-900 similar to the brother, there is the janome 6600 which runs about 1200. what is you budget. You can probably find a janome 7700 for cheaper since they are replacing them but that will probably run you around 1700.

What is the throat space on the 6600 and the 7700? Thanks!

Take a look at the Juki TL-2010Q. I love my machine. It's strong, powerful and fast. The feet including the walking foot are much heavier and sturdier than other machines (more like industrial feet). The harp space is higher and more rectangular than other 9" harp space machines and you can easily get a King sized quilt through this machine.