One thing I learned is that the machine you use for piecing is probably not the same as the one you want to use for quilting the quilt.
I started with a lovely D1, thinking I would love the embroidery options. I did a bit but it was not for me. I sold the D1, which I realized was also not great for piecing: the feed dogs were made such that the fabric swung a bit as you ended a seam, and while I could compensate, it was frustrating to always have to watch the seam ends did not wander.
I bought a used Bernina 170 off EBay and love it for piecing. But it is really too small for quilting on, so I got a Juki 2010Q for that. The Juki is also very nice for piecing.
And now I am gearing up to go longarm!