I have three Babylocks, love them all. I bought the Crescendo last fall (traded in my Symphony which I loved!) as I wanted the super lighting, 11.25 throat and I love the laser light and use it often. I have used the sensor pen, but ya, I could live without it. I think if you do things other than quilting it might be handier?
Anyway, I have had not trouble whatsoever with my BLs at all. I don't know what the diff is between them and Brother machines, pretty much the same I think.
I'd say buy the machine that has the features you want, the best price you can get, and most of all, the one that has the dealer that will be there to help you and service your machine. My dealer is awesome!