Ditto on the above but I'm a Janome fan.

Bernina.

I too had almost went to the Janome but got a great deal on a gently used (7hrs) Viking Ruby. I love it. Great decision.

I agree that the local dealer is the key. I have 2 Berninas the QE153 and the last one is the 640E with the embroidery module and the stitch regulator. I love them both. I can go to my dealer and ask questions, how-to's and they are great. Good Luck.

Pfaff is my choice; love, love, love them, especially the 1400 series!

I love my Bernina...since we are on the subject about sewing machines I would like some advice. I wanted the Bernina walking foot attachment but at the time really couldn't afford, so I bought the universal with the adapter. It works good but I was told I should have went for the original. What do you all think?

I love my Janome Quilters Edition and my Bernina 700 (embroidery/sewing machine). They are both quality machines!

I have a 730 Bernina and I really like it but do not know how to completely use it. I also have a 9 year old Baby Lock Alismo which I dearly love and it is very easy to use and has wonderful stitches and embroidery.

Navy wife had the best answer. Most important is the dealer and how helpful they are. also how close, esp. if you get one of the more complex ones.
Deloris

I have Janome 7700, named Sunny, and love it. The throat space is to die for, exspeally doing any quilting method. And the walking foot is fantastic.