Thank you, Candace, for your clarification. I trust that you are a dealer and that you disagree with my dealer.

I was sold the machine with the impression the machines are internally the same--one good quality machine. One just has the embroidery capabilities. I certainly agree, as you will, that Bernina is a great product regardless of what machine is purchased.

I'm stating the facts that are searchable on the internet. And I have the 830 and carefully mulled my options when purchasing. So, yes, if your dealer told you the 830 and 820 were the exact same machine minus the embroidery arm, he was incorrect. Love these machines. Now is the difference worth the cost? That's up to each person to decide.

You can always keep the 6600 in case you have problems. it is a heavy machine but still good for workshops. I now have a Brother 1500D and boy I would never want to take that any where. it is a tank and good for the embroidery I will want to do down the road.

I've had the 820 for one and a half years now and really love it. I bought mine with an inheritance from my dad. I know he'd have been happy that I bought it as he was so proud of my sewing. My mom sewed and he thought that the fact that my sister and I also loved sewing was such a wonderful thing. Doing my own quilting on my quilts is very important to me, so this was the perfect investment. Quilting a queen-sized quilt is absolutely no problem now. I love it! I have a couple of other machines -- a Bernina 1031 (mechanical), a Singer Featherweight and a portable Janome for retreats. They are great for backups and for when my 7 yr. old grandaughter comes over to sew. Keep the old one and enjoy the 820.

I thank all those who submitted their heartfelt support, honest opinions, and personal experiences. I value every bit of input I was given. I did purchase a Bernina 820! I am thrilled with her, and her name IS Franny as planned. She was previously owned by a wonderful woman from this site who had placed an ad on Craigslist. When I called her and gave her the synapsis of my story, she said "Now wait a minute...are you on Paradise?" I was stunned and taken by the realization that we quilters, far and wide, are truely connected in an almost family like way through this wonderful board. Like family, you all freely and happily gave me encouragement, support, and compassion and I am humbly grateful. Blessings to you all.

Yay! Yay! Yipee! Have so much fun sewing on her. You surely deserve it! May it be a blessing in your life.

So happy for you! I'll bet you will have so much fun with Franny! Don't forget we love pics!