I unhooked my stitch regulator as it wasn't working properly. Some days I wish I had one on but I just have to relax and take my time.

I have a Freedom and have used it both ways, but really do like with the stitch regulator more.

I have a stitch regulator that has given me nothing but problems. I finally took it off my machine and I work without it. Infinitely better for me. $600. for a piece of junk that I had to send back to the manufacturer three times. The dealer moved to Phoenix and I am in California soI had no recourse there either.

I couldn't live without the stitch regulator on my Gammill long arm machine!

I bought a used one without it and have done just fine. This was even a stretch for my budget. I was just grateful to have it.

i have used a stitch regulator but quilt much better without it. I have quilted on a domestic sewing machine all my life and was proficient at that before i did anything on the longarm. that may have something to do with it.
I think you have to try machines with it on and with it off and see how you do.

I have used a longarm machine without a stitch regulator. After making several quilts on the machine my friend got a machine with a stitch regulator. I know have a long arm and I got a stitch regulator on it. I found it is more relaxing to have a stitch regulator. I feel it is worth the money. Several quilters I know who have LA without them wish they had regulaters.

I love my stitch reg. When it didn't work, and I only had manual, I did OK. But, when the SR was fixed, it made a world of difference for intricate stitching. Honestly, it's really worth a lot to be able to maneuver tight places with the control you get from being able to go slowly.
Cynthia

My first machine was a short arm, old Singer head, and had no stitch regulator. So when I bought my mid arm I didn't even consider a stitch regulator because I out sew them, and I had enough practice to keep my stitches fairly even. Another reason is the cost of the machine. I can see where they would be nice to have, but they don't guarantee even stitches! I think you need to decide is this a business or are you doing it mostly for yourself and don't expect to do it full time. I would suggest that you try all the machines with and without the stitch regulator and see for yourself how the different machines feel.

My mother has a LA machine; her's doesn't have the stitch regulator. I just several times each year. If you've never used a stitch regulator how would you know if it's good or not? I find that concentration on what you are doing makes a big difference too.