I have the original embroidery machine that Bernina produced, the 650 Deco. I have used it almost to pieces. I have bought it presents, like an extension table, additional hoops and tons of software. The thing I liked about it the most is that the hoop attaches on the inside of the sewing surface next to the body of the machine. This allows for easy hooping of almost anything, especially bigger stuff. I also purchased additional bigger hoops for it through Nancy's Notions. When most of he designs started coming out on CDs instead of the little cards I broke down and purchased a Brother PE780D. It also uses the cards but can also use the little plugin UBS sticks. Now I can use the designs that only come on CD because I can load them on the UBS stick with my computer. The thing I don't like about the Brother is that the hoops attaches on the outside of the machine which makes it hard to cram larger or bulky objects to be embroidered in the space between where the hoop attaches and the body of the machine. I embroidery designs on a lot of sweatshirts and other bulky items. Since I am a plus size lady my garments are also plus size. My advice would be to purchase whatever machine in your price range allows for the hoop to be attached on the inside of the harp. If you intend to embroider larger items you might also need to invest in larger hoops. The embroidered designs come out so much better if you can get them done in one hooping.