Owners of Singer Futura Quintet?
 

I've been considering purchasing a Singer Futura Quintet but have been put off by some of the reviews I've read about tension problems. I love my little, basic Janome but I'd like to upgrade to a higher tech machine with some embroidery capabilities. I don't see myself getting so into embroidery that I'd warrant spending thousands on a machine that could do that. The Futura seemed a very affordable option, if it works well.

Just wondering if anyone would be willing to share their experiences with this machine and whether they found issues with tension are inherent with the machine or more due to a learning curve and getting familiar with the machine. Thanks!
-Heather

I have a friend that sells these machines ( does not own the shop) and she told me I would be better if I went with the Brother. She does not sell Brother, so it wasn't that. But that is what I did and been very happy with it.

I have no experience with the Singer Futura Quintet - have you tested one? Is there a dealer in your area? I have seen them on HSN and was very tempted but need someone local for questions.

My friend bought the Brother PE 770 and loves it. She can buy Disney designs from Disney at it takes a hoop up to 5 x 7.
I have the Viking Topaz 20 - I went to the dealer and got a great deal on a floor model so it came with the full warranty and they had lessons. My machine is an embroidery/sewing machine so in a pinch I can use it as a back-up to my Janome but so far have not done it, I use it for embroidery.

So check out the machine for yourself and make a decision because it is not a cheap machine and you want to be happy with your decision.

I checked out Yahoo groups and there are a couple for the Singer Futura Quintet. However, there aren't a lot of members and neither group has been active for a year. This indicates to me it is not a popular machine. Usually there is a good reason why a sewing machine model is not popular.

I would also suggest the PE-770 for embroidery. With a separate embroidery machine you can be doing other things (such as piecing on your sewing machine) while the embroidery is sewing out. The sew-outs can take some time. The hoop size of the PE-770 is smaller than that of the Singer, but you can still do a lot with that size hoop.

Personally, I wouldn't buy any Singer newer than the 60's, my personal opinion.

I have only heard that the new Singers are not made as well as the older models were. I myself would look for an older model of Bernina.

For what it is worth, Brother has a special on just now - buy a PE770 and get a refurbished sewing machine (forgot which one) for $799.99. I have the PE780 (same machine) and like it very much. I think that is a pretty good price.

Just realized I made a typo. The price is $699.99 for both machines. Even better.

Thanks for the tips everyone! I really appreciate it! I'll check out the PE770.