All sewers like different machines, I grew up using, the New Home I understand that Janome is the same machine. I never had problems with the older machines and thought a few years back that I had to have the 6600.I was so proud of my new machine. The trouble I had,,,,,I sew fast. The thread kept flying off the take up lever. It was so frustrating, my dealer kept telling me to slow down.....but how do you menander os stipple or piece slowly .I only kept the machine about 6 months. I really like the newer babylock the throat space is larger.you can sew fast and I have never had the thread fly off the take up leaver. I also sew on a Juki 2000 a real work horse but straight stitch only. I also have a babylock Ellismo Gold great machine sews well but I use it for embroidery most of the time I like to have the second machine to sew on while embroidering. I suggest trying out several machines, see what feels right for you..Happy shopping