I purchased the Janome 8900 last thursday, 4/25/13. It was $3,995.00 plus extras. The dealer at Sew 'N Save, Jim, spent 2 hours with me as I wanted to go over the machine thoroughly, switching stitch plates, presser feet, using decorative stitches, free motion quilting, and finding the perfect 1/4" seam. He patiently addressed all my inquiries and let me run the machine so that I could learn. I am very comfortable with this machine and love it's lock stitch, thread cutter, and 11" harp space. The decorative stitches are very friendly to use and are 9mm. As my dealer is quite a distance from me, I appreciated greatly, the comprehensive lesson. I have even called with a question already and received immediate response from a technician there. I'm very pleased with Sew 'N Save and the Janome 8900.