I have read some of the issues that people are having with the top end machines. I don't think it's just the Bernina. My machines have all been Janome and last fall I bought the MC6600. Now I hear rumblings Janome is coming out with a new machine (with all the bells and whistles). At first I was kicking myself that I hadn't waited a bit longer to purchase but after hearing some of the issues others talk about I'm not kicking quite as hard.

With all the fancy machines with the fancy stitches and doodads, you still find lots of folks who just prefer to use their old Singer Featherweights.

Maggie in E. Central Illinois

To me, yes and it always has been since I first set eyes on it.

I have similar thoughts about my 730 so an 830 would just end up in a heap on the floor! OH thinks I've taken up talking to myself as a new hobby but I'm usually just talking to the machine. 99% of the time it's good but always the 1% is barbed and gets right under your skin!

Your percentages are way different and you have a good solid background too! I admire your perseverance and the lovely things you have created on it.

After watching the show with Gayle Hillert from Bernina, I am going to write down a question that has been rolling around in my head since I've been working with my 830.

I have heard over and over again that Bernina canvassed its customers to determine what they wanted in a new machine and then built it. However I have also been reading all the issues, problems, frustrations, etc. experienced by those I will call "average" users and many professionals. Just surf the internet and read the social networking groups.

I personally have loads of experience with software driven machines and devices as well as years of experience with sewing of garments, home decoration items, and quilts. There are days I just want to scream at it: WHAT DO YOU WANT ME TO DO NOW? WHAT DON'T YOU LIKE ABOUT THE THREAD? THE BOBBIN? THE FOOT? THE TENSION? THE SOFTWARE? ARE YOU BROKEN? OUT OF ALIGNMENT? IS IT ME?

Who thought it was OK to have to use a lighted dental mirror to see if the bobbin was threaded correctly? I still need to find a mini vacuum because it is a lint factory no matter what quality thread is used. I love the cutters but those tiny pieces can work their way into the most difficult places to clean.

On the other hand, I've been able to create some lovely and intricate results by machine that were impossible previously or only with hours of work.

As you can tell, the Diva and I have a hate/love relationship. What do you think?

PS: Training is dependent on your dealer and not dictated by Bernina.