Take the time to try out the Janome's. 45 min. drive really isn't that much. It takes me 30 to get to the repair person I use & 40 to get to the quilt shop if there is no road work. I liked the Janome I had 5-6 yrs ago but the dealer was closing up shop & would not offer any deals. I get a Bernina for less plus credit for trade in. If I were to go for a Janome now it's 1-1/2 hr drive.