I love my Bernina 740! Granted, this is the brand my LQS carries and I wanted their technical support, so I bought from them. I didn't do a lot of research, so I probably could have been just as happy with a different brand, but I couldn't get the service, support and education I get with my local dealer. The stitch regulator was a definite need for me. I took a free motion quilting class for beginners and my work was definitely better than some of the other students. It was all because of the stitch regulator, I know I was not a better sewist than the others. It truly elevates your work. I'm real happy with my purchase and my dealer. I would definitely recommend them.

My 770 went to the spa so I pulled out the 1260. I'd forgotten that you have to lower the presser foot. Duh!

Yes! I sew on 4 different Berninas, and am always forgetting to lower the feed dogs on the Vintage machines. I do love that feature on my 590!

I have a question for anyone who has a Q16 or Q20. How reliable is it? I am looking at getting a mid arm sit down, but we are also moving to a more remote area so any repair techs will be over an hour to 3 hours away. How often does it need to go to the spa? Most of my machines are old ones, 1950's and earlier nothing computerized. So I do most of the maintenance myself. I'm a little hesitant on something with a mother board. Also can they be completely powered down between uses? Any help would be great.