I started machine embroidery in February on a Brother SE400 that only allowed me to do 4x4 designs. In July! I sold that machine and bought a Babylock Esante combo machine and I LOVE it! That being said, while I have no knowledge of the Janome machine you speak of, I can tell you that I wished I would have started with the larger machine to begin with. I say, if you can swing it, go for it! Happy quilting! You will find this board to be of great resource of encouragement and inspiration! Enjoy!