Hi, The Handiquilter is a midarm machine with a sixteen inch throat. Hence the name HQ Sixteen and the other one is called Simply Sixteen. My machine came with front & rear handles, laser , bobbin winder, and a professional frame for about $5000.00 My husband got me a stitch regulator for Xmas. I have not tried it yet. As soon as I get something ready, I will be trying it out. Yes I did take classes, Am still taking classes(smile) I'm fairly new to quilting but I really love all aspects of it.
You'll find that the longarms cost much more. I would suggest that you try it out at your quilt shop or one of the quilt shows. Hope this helped a bit.