I just purchased a Brother QC1000 ($1700.00) and it is great. Has lots of nice features including 3 methods of stopping and starting stitching, and a nice sized add on flat bed feature. It also has 4 thread holders and the bobbin can be refilled without undoing your sewing thread. It also has many of the attachments that other machines don't offer included. However, this machine is heavy so not good for transporting. For this I have a Brother BC1000. This a very nice machine for taking to retreats, meetings, etc. and is under $200. It has 60 decorative stitches and is a real little workhorse. The small machine is the one that convinced me that the Brother machines are just as good and reliable as much more expensive ones and have a lot to offer in features, etc. Why not check the QC1000 out before making a purchase? The QC1000 must be purchased through a Brother approved dealer; however, I bought the BC1000 at Targets. Hope this info helps you out with another option.