I started with the Brother Snoopy machine--then I got the Bernina Deco 600--both were sold when I bought the Bro ULT2003D new..and I truly fell in love. It sews as well as embroiders..4 hoop sizes. Recently I added a used ULT2002D that was upgraded to 2003. So now I have 2 of the same machine and there is no way I'd change brands. They use cards or floppy disks, and I have software PE Design v4, and v5, and a Mini Magic Box. I've installed My Editor which I use as much as the pe design--I have Embird, and the free Pulse Ambassador (all 3 will convert formats.) I just don't have time to do as much as I'd like, but my late favorite is projects made ITH. Love them!