I do have a 1600p, and love it for piecing and quilting. It is a heavy machine and a real workhorse. I do have other machines that do zig zag and have some limited decorative stitches. I din't think you would be happy with the 1600 if you want to do embroidery patterns. Oh, and my machine doesn't take standard needles.

I admit - I get very overwhelmed with the bells and whistles. I am only starting out - but I know I need more than what I have, there is something comfortingly basic about the 1600P QC - then again, I don't want to have to upgrade for a very long while. Think I'll have to go try them both out.

Oh, if it doesn't take standard needles then that would annoy me, also - It sounds like a great machine, but I do want one that I can take with me where ever I go! So as much as I love the sound of it, maybe that isn;t the one for me!

If you want portability, then you really don't want either of those. It's not that you can't take them with you, but they are big in size ... and heavy.

The Gem (or is it Jem) is 3/4 size and a lot of people like them for taking to class. And there's lots of other models that give a good range of features, and are full size, yet still quite portable.

The best way to get to know the machines is to go on the Janome site and compare the features. Then go to the store and sit and sew. Honestly, I don't think you can go wrong with any of the Janome's ... it's just a matter of deciding what is right for you now .. and into the future!