While at a quilt show 3 yr ago, l came across a vendor ( local quilting/ sew shop) who had a display of recently traded machines. I saw& fell in love with a Janome 8900 (11" throat!) , but didn't feel comfortable purchasing in that setting. After the show, l told hubby about it and was kicking myself for not getting it. Hubby said " call him up". I'm glad l did! The machine was available...l went to shop, tried it, got a " lesson" on it and it has been my trusty sidekick ever since! Wonderful price , and a dealer 30 day warrantee.Ask dealers about trades...mine had barely been used because the buyer decided quickly to move up to the M7.