I'm trying to make the leap to buy a "real" sewing machine. I've sewn for many years on inexpensive Singers and now want something more. The 9" harp for more space is at the top of my wish list, needle up/down, knee lifter, and ability to make quilt labels. The Janome 6500 is the one I've been looking at and it is at the top end of what I want to spend. My problem is this - will I be disappointed that I didn't spend another $500 to get Accufeed and other features of the 6600? Will a walking foot on the 6500 give me similar results? Even the 6500 would be soooo much more than I've ever had (or felt I needed).

you will not be disappointed by the 6500. it gets rave reviews and will serve you well for many years.

a word of advice, though.

do not make the mistake of sitting down to test drive the 6600. the accufeed is a fantastic feature. in fact, i get a nearly perfect even feed without the special feet.

if you never experience the difference, you will not miss the difference.

;-)

I'm glad you asked this question, as I've been toying with the idea of getting a Janome 6500 or 6600 myself. Looking forward to seeing all the replies.

good advice ;-)

I had the 6500 for many years and loved it -- it served me very well for many years and now DD has it and loves it too. I was really bummed, however, because I bought the 6500 about 3 months before the 6600 came out and I really wanted the accufeed. I tried it out but I could not justify it so soon after buying the 6500, but started saving just the same.

Just about had enough money when the 7700 came out, DH tossed in some more money for Mother's Day and my birthday and I got the 7700. I use the accufeed for almost everything -- I love it!! I don't know how I lived without it.

You will not be disappointed with the 6500; it's a fantastic machine. I will say that many dealers are taking 6600's as trade-ins for 7700's, so you may be able to get a 6600 for the same price or less than the 6500. I wouldn't have any hesitation about buying used as long as it's from a reputable Janome dealer who offers a warranty on the machine. I did buy my 6600 through ebay and never had a bit of trouble with it but you do take a chance that way. For me, the savings (I paid $900) was worth it. In fact I still have it as I traded in my 6500 to get a 7700.

All three are great machines!

I also have a 6500 and love my machine........the decorative stitches are a really nice addition to the machine....I have had mine for over 8 years and do not find a need to upgrade. I bought a special foot that give me my 1/4". I had trouble with this until I purchased the attachment.

The Accufeed is not that great of an extra in my opinion from reviews that I have read. I have the MC65000 and it is my baby after my son:):):):)

I also have the 6500P and enjoy the extra throat space. I love the scissors button when I need to stop in the middle of the quilt.

I have trouble with my needle threader, but I bought mine used.

I miss the free arm part of the time, but the 6500P fits my older Parson cabinet so well. I don't even use the extension table because I can put it even with the cabinet.

I have been reading some negatives about these machines, so please go to a good customer service dealer.

I have the 6600 and LOVE the acufeed feature. If you think you can swing the extra money, I think it's well worth it. But maybe you can find a used 6600. I know our local dealers have been taking them in on the Horizon.