I am a viking lover. I have had many from the 400 up. I now have the designer diamond. I will admit i bought it for retirement sewing. Will practice more on the embroidery this winter when have more time. Sews like a champ. BUT dealer ship is what made me choose a viking. If you can;t get lessons, repairs, or mine came with 7 years service free. That is what makes the difference. I love my dealer, the shop that I bought it and the service. The machine is great.