Purchased my 6600 June 8 2008. the only thing I have ever had done is regular cleanings. Still going strong. I know nothing about Pfaff's but I think the extra feet, bobbins, accessories, etc. are more expensive than the Janome's. I have purchased a lot of extra "specialty" type feet for my 6600 and they are not expensive at all. Maybe looking into the accessory costs for all the machines you are considering will help in your decision.
Just something to consider....

Another vote for the 6600 here, I purchased mine used 6 years ago and love it! $899 is a good price for it used. I see them regularly for that on Craigslist here, and have been tempted it purchase another so my daughters can use it when we sew together.
The 6600 is wonderful for quilting and I have managed to quilt quilts up to 95x95 on it. It's a challenge when they are that big, but it is possible.

Also have the Janome 6600 and love it. I do all my own quilting with it also.

Kris P, Lucky you! I have been watching CL for a few years now for a 6600 and have only seen one.

It’s nice to know that the 6600 still holds it’s value. When I purchased the 8900 the plan was to sell the 6600 but everyone (including QB members) talked me out of it. It is a workhorse and I’m glad I kept it, I still use it more than my 8900.

I also think Pfaff is a great machine, I have an older model at my summer home which I use for piecing. Good luck with your decision. I’m sure test driving them will help you choose.

I had a Janome 6600, upgraded to a 6700. I love both. The 6700 has a button on the front to bush to remove the needle plate, easier than unscrewing. Plus it has several needle plates. I like the large throat space on both these machines. And found that if I put the top thread guide horizontally, I can use the metallic thread, sliver thread without a separate stand. Find the machine that works best for you.

Thanks everyone for the input -- and Kris P for letting me know the price is sound. A lot of the reviews I was reading when researching was soon after it was purchased. I wanted to hear from people who have used the machines for a while. I feel I will lean towards the Janome since I already have one and I loved the extension table that was included.

I'm hoping I enjoy the test drive because I am ready to buy! I have two quilts that need to be quilted and I know I can't switch machines part way through the project and I can't imagine anything more frustrating than having a new machine that I can't use!

Again thanks so much for the replies -- this community is wonderful!

I am not familiar withe Pfaff or Elna machines but I have a Janome 6600 and really have found it outstanding for my quilting needs. It has a 9" throat and I do mostly 50" to 60" quilts-Love it!

I love the Pfaff machines, and the IDT is so convenient. No need to buy walking feet. I have the Pfaff Performance 5.0, and it is a great machine. Pfaff now has come out with the newest model, the 5.2. The wide throat is a must for I do FMQ.

[QUOTE=IrishMom;8035855]So a month ago I posted about looking for a sewing machine and received great tips and advice in going out and looking for a machine. To recap -- I use my machine 95% of the time for quilting, I wanted a wider opening for quilting, an up/down needle, and if possible an extension table. From those comments I did have a reality check and upped what I would be willing to pay.

My local sewing shop which has such great people and free lessons has three different options for me. The one I am drooling over has more than I wanted on it, but it has such good reviews -- it is the Janome 6600. He is offering a used one to me for $899. It does have some blemishes on it by the plate.

The other used one he had was the Pfaff Quilter's Expression 2046 for $799. The reviews for this one have also been outstanding.

My third option doesn't have all that I want but it would be a good solid machine that I would be buying new. An Elna Expression 520 ($599) or the 540 ($799). It is now made by Janome but is a solid sewing machine instead of a quilting machine.

My main concern with the used machines are the computerized boards and their life span.

Yesterday was more of a walkthrough of what was available, he was working on one of them so next week I'll be able to test drive. Any additional help and advice would be appreciated. Thank You![/QUOTE


I really would not let concerns re: computer boards keep me from getting the one that I wanted! I have one that is nearing 20 years old, and have not had one second of trouble with it (altho I am religious about routine maintenance).....Ask him about some type of warranty (my shop provides 6 months warranty on used machines they sell).............Good luck with your decision, and ENJOY whichever machine you ultimately purchase.
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