Well I think have a supportative dealer is important both for learning your machine in addition to repairs. I am in the Viking camp, Designer 1 and SE.............like them both very much .............a Pfaff offers the IDT foot on the upper models and I would consider them. My friend has a Brother and I am impressed with the machine is quiet and does emb. well............Bernina; well I have a quilters edition and like it.........but..............for embroidery well the ART format is fussy or at least with my software ............my friend who has a SE and a 440 says Bernina wants to play alone...........just my opinion..........calla