I think that every quilter has likes and dislikes for one sewing machine or another. I would try any sewing center that is local to your location, as repair/maintenance is important. To box a machine and ship it off to a stranger for servicing does not make me comfortable. Try out all their machines, check out the used machines. Your purchase will be with you for a long time - maybe 10-20 years (my Janome 10000is 13 years old). The bells and whistle that I would not do without is needle up and down buttons, auto tie and cut off button, large harp (or throat) at least 10", and a dealer/repair agent within doable driving distance. It does help to buy from a dealer that offers lessons. If you find a machine that you love and it is a bit costly, negotiate with the dealer, look for it on craigslist, and ebay for a price to be knowledgeable about negotiating a good deal. I think it is well worth some $$ to buy local.