Many Bernina owners wouldn't use anything else. I find them pricey compared to other comparable machines...especially the attachments... as already mentioned. If you are willing to spend $600 as you mentioned, usually there are a number of good gently used machines of very high quality offered by the companies who took them in on upgrades or even from an individual. That's a little more risky to buy from an individual you don't know. I think you're doing your homework which is a very good thing!

Just another thought...most people buy a machine and then find out later that they wish it had a larger embroidery hoop..go for the largest hoop you can find in your price range.

I have a Bernina 640 and it is an excellent machine. You will love it! $600 is a very good price!

I have a number of Berninas, 930, 150, 160, 430, 200 and just traded an 830 for a 790. It was my understanding that none of the Berninas work with prewounds. I know the 830 and 790 are specialty bobbins. Are you using a prewound on a Bernina?, if so, what model do you have? Yes, I am a Bernina freak. I am sewing machine poor!

Not familiar with this machine, but be aware, if the software is old enough it may not work very well on the latest Windows. Many programs need to be constantly updated nearly as often as the computers are.

Thank you for all of the responses. I did buy this machine and am very happy with it. I did find that the software is older and, in fact, will only work with lower Windows versions. I think I can find other software to generate the exp files. I guess I need to start looking into which is best for that too.
Not to go too much off topic but I’m thinking of attacking a T-shirt quilt as my first big project with lots of little ones as practice before that. I’m looking forward to using this forum for help.

Thank you all !!