Good luck on your search - I recently purchased my second machine, first nice one. After much research I bought a Janome 3160 and I LOVE IT!! Lots of great 'user' options - stop/start button, that I now use instead of the foot pedal. It also has a button that cuts the thread, even a threader! It is worth every penny. The dealer also provided two free classes. I am basically a novice quilter, but has made lots of difference in the quality of seams, etc. Also this machine comes with numerous foots, for your sewing needs. Good luck and have fun!