Joset

i would get both.

Holice

check around for the price on the Janome Horizon. I notice that the price can vary But get the basic model. You wil love the 11" space and soon learn it is worth the $$.

QuiltNama

Go for both. I have a 301 and it works great for FM for small things, plus it is the perfect backup in case.....

SharBear

Ditto! My mom has a Janome for workshops, etc. what a great brand of machines.

mea12

This is kind of apples and oranges bc you can't really compare these 2 machines. I say if you must have just one, go with the Horizon because it offers so much more and has so many perks/features that will make any project easier and more fun. That said, I have a number of vintage Singers and i LOVE them too but if I had to choose between those two, I'd go w/ the Horizon! Also, the slant needle Singers aren't ideal for FM based on what I read and hear.

Buckeye Rose

check with the dealers for good used machines. I just bought a used 6600 and love it! The built in accufeed system is amazing.

littlehud

It wouldn't be a problem for me to choose. I just would go for both like everyone else here. I would love to have the Horizon though. Just a dream for me.

Rose Marie

It is nice to have more than one machine as maintenance and repairs do happen.
For me its one expensive computerized machine that does everything I want except embroidery. It has a 10inch throat and needle down so works well for free motion.
A second cheap workhorse machine like a Brother strait stitch for piecework and backup when the computerized one is in the shop.
This machine should also have needle down as that is a very handy function to have for quilting.

katykwilt

Do you realize how lucky we quilters are when we are presented with these tough decisions? Ever so often I get a reality check when I read about women in impoverished countries and see what they use for their creations. Now, to get to your delimma. Get the Horizon -- I have a Janome 6500, use it as my main machine, but also have 7 other old Singers, the portables are used for teaching others about sewing. I feel the old iron horses are just that -- great machines that have unbeliveable durabilty. Love them. Also like the new computerized models, but have noticed that they need more maintenance -- though, not enough to discourage anyone from enjoying all the attributes that they offer, like the extra space, the ton of special stitches, the ease of threading, etc. If you can get one, do it. You'll learn many more new techniques and enjoy a new, special tool. However, I understand there is a new Janome out that upstages that 7700 -- haven't seen it, but, gosh, can't be too close-mined now, can we?

Candace

If the 301 is free...why can't you take it and sew on it? The only problem is that the 301 is straight stitch only. So you will need another machine for applique and other techniques. I have 2 301's and am maybe buying a 3rd 301 so you could say I'm rather attached to this machine! The Horizon would be an awesome choice and you could use the 301 as your travel machine if you can get by with the straight stitch.