Go to one of the larger quilt shows and try them out. The frame is a part of the cost as well. There is a real variety out there and there are added costs like computers, design boards, microhandels, etc. It is also very important to find a dealer to service your machine that is not too far away. For me, the class that was provided was the best thing. I went for 4 full days and came away feeling confident and I have taken off with my machine trying all sorts of new things.
Best of luck.