I'd go with a Brother...
K

The newer Brother machines have an up/down button. even the less expensive machines have them.

I also am thinking Jernome. I'm also told that you need to look at the length of the bed, I don't plan on doing much quilting on it, maybe only table runners etc. I live in NH and the dealers and repair places are few. thanks for the advice.

I have a brother with up/down,thread cutter, and automatic threader that are all wonderful,+embrodery, and 25 yr waranty for less than 350.00 new. Igot it off of ebay.Love it.

nana, I'll look into that. thank you so much!!

I also would go for a viking! But you need to try out several before you make final decision.