My sister has the 6500 and I do like it but I wanted the built in walking foot so after finding a dealer who would deal with me on price I bought the 6600 which I have had for the last year. I love this machine and marvel had all the things it can do. I have had no problems with fabric catching unless I get in a hurry and don't get the fabric in right. I do wish it had a free arm but this is not a big issue. I used my featherweight for years without a free arm & managed just fine. The biggest advantange to the 6600 is the stop/start button and the ability to sew without the presser foot. I have bursitis in both hips and fibromyalgia and this is a life saver for me. It is something I could not do without now. Good luck---and don't be afraid to haggle. I got mine new for the same price my sister paid for the 6500---