Dear Val,
Before I bought my Viking Megaquilter I went online for advice. Best : what machine does your quilt shop carry, because then you can get lessons and service for it. I do love the bigger throat. It is my main machine. I also have a Babylock Cresendo for decorative stitches. It also has a big throat. I do love the Q2, that Alex got, for a middle sized quilting machine.
Happy shopping.
Pat