I have the Janome 8900 too. LOVE the wide throat space and it pieces pretty well. I will say it doesn't like super thick layers. It wouldn't sew over the corners when I was making a tote but then neither would my 6600 or Janome AQS machine. But the 8900 does have a nice quiet, even stitch.

I traded in my Janome 7700 for a Babylock Crescendo and haven't looked back- it was a very nice change. That being said, many folks in my guild etc. have the Janome 8900 and love it. I think they worked out a lot of the 7700 bugs. I would buy the 8900 if I was going to get another Janome. And I would try at least one other brand, just so you know what "fits" you!

I traded my Janome 4120 for the crescendo-- fantastic machine!!!!!

I have the Janome 8900 and really like it and love the accufeed feet. I have never tried a babylock.

Never had a Janome but had two combo Baby Lock machines and can't say enough about them
Great machines AND great service.