I have had several Brother machines over the years and loved tbem. I also love Janome, Babylock and Husquevarna Viking. I love my old mechanical Singers. In fact, I never met a sewing machine I didn't love. Lol Well, there was one Singer portable that I had when DH was in the Army. It was.dog! The tension wouldn't stay in adjustment. I traded it for a Brother, that I loved. The reason I changed to Janome and Babylock is that my dealer now sells those brands. Most major brands are good. Be sure you have a good dealer who stands behind the machines they sell.

http://www.brother-usa.com/Homesewin...oductID=NX450Q This is a really good machine for about $700. If you expect it to last, this would be a good choice. I also have the Brother cs6000i and it's a great little machine to take to class but at that price I don't expect it to last long.