I don't know why a service person would say that a BSR would cause a machine to be brought in more often. Bernina doesn't make the 440 anymore. I started with that one, but upgraded to the new 580 so I could add embroidery to my quilts. I didn't buy this option when I bought the 440. IF you can wait, there should be some good deals on trade-ins when Bernina releases their new line in the fall. But I agree, the dealer and the service mean everything.

I had a conversation with my SMG the other day (he was doing a house call on my LA). I asked him what he thought was the best machine. He said Bernina. They are the ones he sees least often, and he had all kinds of good things to say about the companies character.