I got a Viking Sapphire a year ago that replaced a 20 year old Kenmore. The Kenmore worked just fine, as far as I was concerned, since I didn't know any differently. After using the Viking I wouldn't want to go back. The SPEED!! I had to turn it down to Slow until I got used to it. It's smooth and quiet, has needle up/down, Fix (but not an automatic thread cutter). Just has everything I need for piecing and it was $1000. I haven't tried quilting on it but it has the auto sensor for thickness and the stitch advisor to tell you the recommended needle, foot, etc.
It's a great machine IMO.