Originally Posted by Prism99
I would definitely try out Pfaff, Bernina and Janome machines at dealerships. The Pfaff is really nice for piecing because of the built-in even feed, but the placement of the presser foot lifter drives me nuts! Love my Bernina 1230, but it's a really old machine now; not sure I would love the newer Bernina's as much (haven't tried any out lately). Janome offers a lot of features for less money (I think) than Pfaff or Bernina.
It's a lot like buying a car. You need to test drive one to figure out what you like and don't like.
Yes, pretty much this above. Also check the Juki for a great plain machine if that is what you are looking for. I have several Janomes including the 6500. I bought Janome, about 8-9 years ago, from my Bernina dealer over a Bernina because it offered many features for quilting over the Bernina. Since then Bernina has really gotten into the quilting features but I find their price still prohibitive. I do own a wonderful old work horse, the Bernina 830 vintage, for piecing.