just to confuse you i am going to say something different to nelle,

my parents use to own a patchwork and sewing machine shop so this is what i know...

babylock - the best of the best but expensive......(my mum has two)

husqvarna/viking - next most expensive but great (this is what i have but still wish i had a babylock)

singer - same price as janome but better if you ask me.

janome - have had far too many friends unhappy with theirs and same with their sewing machines.

Get a 4 thread, some people still try to sell these , they are cheaper but are not as nice a finish. try to get one that has a 2nd plate for rolled hems, these are good for some clothes sewing...

PM me if you wan to know more