I bought a Juki 2200QVPs sit down longarm at the Paducah show this past spring. I love it... but then I was already a Juki user, quilting on my 2010Q for several years. I love the height and visibility, and the lights right up front. And, I believe it is the only long arm (so far) with an automatic thread cutter. I love that feature!

You can find sit down machines used, but if you buy one new, you often get great deals with extras and zero percent financing during promotions (like a quilt show). I am only paying $94 a month for 5 years. For me, that's doable.

I have had my Tiara II for almost 4 yrs. now and love it. It is made by HQ, so basically the same machine. I hang hooks in the ceiling with bungee straps & ratchet hooks to help control the weight and same my neck and shoulders. No problems whatsoever.

I also have a Janome Artistic 18 SD. I have had it almost 4 years and have quilted extensively with it. It is a great machine and I'm very happy with my purchase. I would recommend a stand alone bobbin winder as I wore the ring out and replacement was a bit of an issue. My girlfriend also has this machine and it has been a solid machine for her as well. I paid $3999 so $2999 is a deal any day of the week!!