What about and older machine with a knee control for speed? The older knee control machine were mounted in a cabinet. I have a vintage singer with a knee control that is an absolute workhorse. It was my Mom's old machine and she sewed pinch pleat curtains, thick wool coats ... you name it that machine handled it.... and still does. I have a few decorative stitiches but really use it for straight sewing and zig zag.
Industrial machines have a foot petal that is often mistaken for speed control, its actually a brake. If you do lots of really heavy stuff maybe an industrial machine is your best option , but even used they can be a bit pricey. I have friends that have them and I am so envious... the sew faster and are just really tough machines, but typically only perform one stitch.

I have a Bernina 440QE. I just made a purse and topstitched through 9 total layers at a seam...6 fabric and 3 fusible fleece. No skipped stitches and the stitches were even.

What is the next version up? Is it the Horizion? As far as price goes money is no object with me. So even $3000 is not a big deal for me.

Of course I would wheel and deal with a dealer to get the best price I could on whatever machine I would get.

Getting the best price is my middle name and reason I have money in the bank. :-)

Yes, the next model up is the Horizon, and it's a beauty of a machine. One of the differences between the Horizon and the 6600 is that the 6600 has a built in walking foot, and the Horizon doesn't, if that's important to you. Of course it has a walking foot; you just have to put it on. For me, that wouldn't even be an issue, but we all have our priorities. The Horizon has the widest "throat" to accommodate the most quilt, more stitches, and is build like a rock. It has all of the features of the 6600, plus a lot more. It's a machine I'd love to have, if I had the money. Please, go down and sew on one. I did -- spent a good half hour sewing away on one, and she's a smooth, steady, solid beauty of a machine. That's the one my friend ended up paying $2,300 for, with rebates and good old fashioned American negotiating. Oh, and it comes with an extended warranty. Still needs it's yearly check up to stay in top running order, just like a car needs its oil change, etc., but that just makes sense, especially if you are a heavy user. She's a love of a machine, and you need to take good care of her, the way she takes good care of you.

Warmest Regards,