12 years ago I started out with a Kenmore & I loved it. Then I bought a used Bernette Deco for embroidery. Then I bought a Brother PQ1500s for free motion quilting & love it, too. Unfortunately my sewing room isn't big enough to keep all three out at the same time, so I was always putting one on the floor under my sewing table.
I decided to replace all three with one machine that does everything. I shopped around a lot before finally deciding on a Viking, because it had everything on my list of must haves, almost everything on my wish list & I thought it was more affordable than the comparable Bernina. I just got it last week for my birthday & I love it!!!
If you buy from a Viking dealer they come with classes, too. Whatever you decide on, enjoy it!