I have a babylock - not the Designer's Choice - but a different one that has the auto cutter and auto threader. I LOVE the machine - sews so smoothly and the extra features make sewing so much nicer. I haven't had any problems with it and I use it 4 to 5 nights per a week for about 4 years now. I do so much more sewing because I have such a nice machine. The other feature that I love and would not want to be without besides the auto threader and cutter is a clear plate to see how much bobbin is left. I can quicly look and see if I've run out of thread or about to. (The machine also beeps when it's running low.)