I learned on an old Kenmore(Janome) and then bought a high end Janome, quilting machine. The features that I love are the walking foot, the Scissors, and the extra height that I can get with the lever. The other major feature with the Janome is the "sure motor" sound. It is made with steel worm gears, that generate a really "Straight" stitch.
The little feather weight machine by Janome is great just to get some quick sewing done. And to take to classes. Have fun and when looking talk with the sales person about who can tune it up, tension, oil, cleaning when it needs it.