I have a Janome 6500 and have never had a problem with it. But that's not to say that someone else hasn't. I also have a Gammill and I never have tension problems, but my friend has a more expensive Gammill and constantly has problems. She is a very good longarmer, so I don't think it's her. I think it's the machine. I have another friend that has a Janome 6500 and she prefers her Baby Lock. Another friend has a Janome 6500 and bought a new Husqvana/Viking about a year ago. She prefers the 6500. So as you can see, it's all across the board. I definitely do not think it's you. It's like cars, I think. Sometimes you just get a lemon. If you're really unhappy, I would first try to find a new Janome dealer. If that doesn't solve your problems, then I think you should start researching other machines. Life is too short to be frustrated with your hobby.