I have a clone like Jean, mine is older that I bought used for $5K and it came with the qbot automatic quilting system. I bought mine privately from someone who was trading up. I just could not afford a new one for something I was not sure I would use a ton. It is a whole new world and learning experience.

So far, I have done a few things and been ok without the qbot, but it does take practice. Had not been on it in awhile and tried a new pattern without practice on some table runners and they are needing to be 'unstitched' and re-done. My fault, not the machines - the stitches are good, just where the stitches went is not! I do find it much easier than FMQ on my regular sewing machine. Moving the machine instead of the fabric makes so much more sense to me!

My best advice is to try a bunch of them out and see which one you like best for your price range. You can even get used ones from dealers who have taken them as trade ins. I found my lady by calling shops to see what was available and they knew someone who was thinking out upgrading. They took my name and number and passed it to her. She called me - Yay!!

Good luck in whatever you decide.