I agree with the advise to go to the shops and try them out. I think you can get a pretty good machine for that amount of money. Try the janome and vikings. Also when you decide what you like call the independent dealers and ask for their lowest price. I saved quite a bit on my viking 770 that way. That was 8 years ago. Perhaps all the viking dealers are company now. Janome's are sold by independents. Happy shopping!