I agree with BellaBoo. Start by making a list of your 'needs'; 'wants'; 'dreams'. Then let your fingers do alot of walking on your keyboard. I use a spreadsheet for this type of effort. A list of features down the side and then the various machines across the top. Color code your categories if that helps. Then just put checks, x's or whatever in each spot that the machines you select in the appropriate boxes. Put the price on the bottom. Then see which machines fit your needs and your budget. And certainly consider the dealer(s) you have local to you. Test drive the machines that best fit your needs and see how you get along with the dealer and all of their staff. Talk to the person who actually does the service and repairs on the machines. Talk to a couple different repair folks if you can. See if you can determine if they are 'brand loyal' to the dealer they are working for or if they give you an honest opinion regardless of brand. And don't be afraid to consider a used machine. I know there are a few older high end machines on CL in my general vicinity for some really good prices. As long as I could make arrangements with the seller to have it ok'd by the service person of my choice, I wouldn't hesitate. It really shouldn't be any different than buying a used car from that perspective. All that said, I bought a new Viking Platinum when I was in the market a number of years ago now. I do all the same type sewing that you mentioned and have never had an issue with it. More $$ then than your current budget but wouldn't hesitate to recommend the brand.