You can buy a Gammill Vision 18/8 for $11,000 and it definitely isn't a lower-end machine. I have it and love it.

Does the FMQ on your 830 look as beautiful as a long arm?

How long did it take to get good at FMQ on this machine?

I bought the original Bernina 830 back in the 80's and still have it as a back up machine. It is a work horse. When I decided I had to have a new machine, I looked at the new 830 but decided that it was too large for my space and went with the 440QE. At the same time, my quilting friend went with the 830, complete with the table, and has had nothing but trouble with it. Plus it is an extremely heavy machine if she removes it from the table to use it for other things besides quilting. I agree with those who said go for the long arm. Might save you some regrets.

I bought the Lizzy also at the last quilt show. I have limited space so got the sit down. the back of it folds down for smaller quilts or when not in use. I just started using it and I really like it. I also do free motion and did not want the stitch regulator. I agree there are many embroidery machines out there and with the new year there are numerous trade in's at your machine dealers that are on sale.

You said you always dreamed of having a long arm. If you get the Bernina, will that fulfill your dream. Don't settle for less than what you really want

An opinion only:

Generally speaking, I think a specialized machine/tool can do a specific job better than something that supposedly is multi-functioned.

I don't believe you can compare the two. They are two entirely different machines and work differently. You have to decide what kind of quilting you want to do and go from there. Don't be influenced by the many features of the 820 vs the ability of the long arm. So decide where you want to go - quilt large quilts or embroidery and then decide.

It truly depends on what you want to do. Also, the Bernina is a heavy machine to take on and off the frame if you are going to use it a both a longarm and a regular sewing/embroidery machine. If you are just going to sit and sew, then it will be fine.

You can get an smaller Innova for under $11k (here's their Sept specials as a sample: http://innovalongarm.com/shop/special-offers.html). But definitely figure out what you want to do with the machine and shop around - you can usually find a used machine somewhere - even check with machine dealers for demos that they might sell for less.

I have the new Bernina 830. I LOVE it and it has not given me any problems. You'll have to decide after test driving several machines.