A couple of months ago I went to a 2 day lecture/demo with John Deer, well known in the embroidery business. They talked up the larger embroidery machines a lot, as well as other products. I didn't mind as I learned a lot with the embroidery that I didn't mind the "sales pitch". And as others have said here, if you are happy with your machine, that is what matters. Someone has to help sponsor the TQS website and I don't mind the short commercials or mentionings of the machines used on the show. I sold my Janome 4800 to my aunt so I could buy a Janome 6500. I wish now I could have them both as the 4800 had stitches the 6500 doesn't, and it purred a little differently. I also have a Jem Gold. I'm a Janome gal 100%, but I respect everyone for the preference they have in their machines. Now, don't get me started on appliances. After 26 years of DH repairing them, we do have our definite pros and cons on them. LOL HUGS, Kelly in CO