I've had Janome machines for the last 6-8 years and have never had a problem yet. I had the 6500 which is a lot like the 6600 without the accufeed, and just traded up to the 7700. It's great. My suggestion is go to both dealers and take some scrap material and test them out. Get a feel for them. I agree with the others, in that you won't be disappointed with a Janome. I think the 7700 has the deepest throat 11". check them out! good luck!!