I need something that is a little more of a workhorse for all the sewing I put this thing through!!! I have had my Janome Harmony 8080 for 8mos? and it is truly great but I am thinking of upgrading..

I want to make sure to get:

Free Arm
drop in bobbin
thread cutter *minor MUST, LOL*
needle threader
auto tension
Atleast 50 dec stitches
Prefer computerized
Walking foot is a MUST HAVE


Any suggestions for a good workhorse machine?!?

There is a local Janome dealer and I love dealing with him..

I am looking at the memory craft 6500P.. any thoughts or other suggestions?

The Brother NX-400 or the Babylock Decorator's Machine (these two are basically the same) ~ they seem to meet your requirements. I have the Brother. :)

I did a lot of research when I got my machine and my requirements where similar to yours. I was ready to buy one of the two machines that Meagan recommended, but I happened to come across a great deal on an Ellure so I got it instead. If I hadn't found that deal though, I would have gotten the NX400.

I *think* that the 6500P doesn't have a free arm, if it's the one that I think.

Oh please cross your fingers my bid will make it on ebay... :D I doubt it but if it does I will be getting a new machine at less than 1/2 price!!! WOOHOO!!

well?

I have the babylock decorators choice. I think it meets all your requirements. I LOVE this machine!

Well my offer on ebay was declined... I found a Brother NX-600 that I can purchase for $750! It has alot more stitches than the NX-400 which I found somewhere for $499 NEW.... I suppose I will continue my search! I dont want to rush into purchasing a machine...

When I was shopping I discussed the differences between the 400 and the 600 with the owner. She said that there's really very little differences between them for the price. I can't remember the details now though...

Any reviews on the Europro brand?