So frustrated...I wish sewing machines could be built to order...Janome 6600 vs. 7700
 

I'm looking to upgrade my sewing machine and I have it down to between the 6600 and 7700. Everything seems pretty similar between the two. The harp space is 2" smaller on the 6600, but it would be MUCH larger than my current machine, so that's not an issue. They both have a adjustable foot pressure, thread cutter, acufeed, and knee lifter, which are all features my current cheapo machine are lacking. The straight stitch needle plate converter for the 7700 looks really cool, but a separate straight stitch plate for the 6600 is not a big deal to take on and off.

What it really comes down to is the free-arm on the 7700. I want a free arm machine with all the benefits that for quilting that both of these machines have. I've only visited one dealer in my area so far, but their price for the the 6600 is approximately $1,500 and $2,999 for the horizon. So if I went with the horizon, it's like I'm spending twice as much for 2" more bed space and a free arm. I don't really care about all the fancy stitches because 99% of my sewing involves a straight or zig zag stitch. Is there something else I'm missing? What else about the 7700 could possibly justify the higher price tag???

Sure, I could go with the 6600, but then I'd feel like I'd have to keep my little cheap singer to sew my kids' clothing because it has a free-arm. My goal is to have one machine that can accomodate all my sewing (with the exception of the stuff I use my serger for). I really want to do more free motion quilting, and I find it nearly impossible to accomplish this on my little machine.

My dream machine would have the harp space of the horizon, built-in even feed, needle up/down, thread cutter, adjustable foot pressure, knee lift, a good locking stitch, free arm, and 10-20 high quality basic stitches. Any thoughts?

I KNOW this isn't what you want to do....but I'd keep your little machine for the freearm sewing and invest in at least the Janome 6600...I have one and it has a thing or two I don't care for especially, one of the problems I have is that the footfeed hesitates when starting and I've been used to a Bernina that had NO hesitation. That said, you might also take a look at the Husqvarna-Viking machines...I have the Viking 770 and love it but the harp is not real large. I would really suggest you just look...there is a perfect machine out there for you but you'll have to find it! Good luck and happy hunting!

I have looked a bit online at the viking sapphire. It looks like a nice machine but I only have one viking dealer in my area, and I have 5 Janome dealers.

I originally had a Janome 6600 and upgraded to the 7700, so I have owned both machines. I loved the 6600. I really miss is the independent bobbin winder, and I thought it was much easier to select stitches, length, width, etc on the 6600. It come down to your personal preferences, but how do you know if you haven't used the machines? This is just my opinion. I hope it helps.

check with your Janome dealers to see if they have any used machines....I found a used 6600 for hundreds less than new....they also had a 7700 used (someone had upgraded).....it might allow you to justify the cost of a 7700

You won't be sewing your kids clothing for that much longer. Keep the cheapie for the free arm and get the 6600.

I have the 6600p and the 11,000. If you have small children and have the money I would by the Janome 9700 if you like to embroider. also a great machine.

I love both my Janomes but the 11,000 all but does your house work for you. I wish I had it 45 years ago.

I would think there would be quite a few 7700's traded in for the 12000 machine. Maybe put a bug in your dealer's ear and wait a bit.

Also check out quilt shows. With the vendors there, you can get some great deals. I bought my 7700 at a local show for $2500, including the special table, and a travel bag. Then with trading in my 6500, I ended up paying $1800 total. It was a store model, slightly used with all the warranty of a new.

I opted for the 6600 just a little over a month ago. It had everything I wanted and so far haven't been disappointed. I absolutely love the bigger harp space - I feel confident you will not be disappointed with either machine!