I have a Janome - I think it is the 6260QC which I sew on most of the time because it has the large quilting cabinet that it fits into. However, several years ago we purchased a BabyLock (that is a mechanal) as a back up machine and I truly love it.  It is a basic machine, where as the Janome has lots of stitches that I utilize.  My next machine will be a BabyLock.  just my two cents!

Sewing mends the soul.

Catlynn

I myself always have Singer machines too.

Singer machines used to have a really good reputation but I think many people have had problems with the newer models not holding up well with use.

I'm a Baby Lock gal myself.  I haven't used any other brand for the past 10 years so can't make any real comparisons with other brands.  I've had an "Encore" - a computerized model with some decorative stitches and alphabets.  It sewed well but didn't have much space for quilting.  About 5 years ago I bought a "Quilters Choice Pro" that is a mechanical, straight stitch only model that I use just about every day for piecing and/or quilting as well as some garment sewing/modification.  It's a real workhorse that has willingly sewn thru as many layers of fabric as will fit under the presser foot.  It has about 9 (I think) inches of space to the right of the needle and came with an extension table.  Then a little over a year ago I traded in the "Encore" on a "Ellegante 2" sewing and embroidery machine.  It's an awesome machine.  I just wish the dealer gave decent lessons.  It does have a thick instruction manual so I am slowly but surely learning to use it.  Haven't used it enough to get a good idea of its reliability but I haven't had any real problems with it so far.

I'm a Bernina girl!

My sewing machine is a PFAFF but it is 13 years old.  I LOVE it!  They sold the company so I can't say much for the newer ones because I don't know.  The store I got mine no longer sells them.  If I were to buy another I would look at a Bernina.  I would definitely go to a reputable sewing machine store so you could go back for classes or help with your machine.  Make sure it is strong enough for draperies.  If you think you might get into quilting make sure the new machine has those "extra" features.

I have always had a Brother.  I still use my mothers machine but like having two just incase you one passes on a sunday evening

I'm looking at upgrading currently.. I have a Necchi. It's held up amazingly well for over 20 years.  I love it but feel it would be nice to have something with some more 'bells and whistles'. I'm watching this thread to see what people like in thier machines. I've not been impressed with the singers.. I'm probabaly leaning towards a NewHome.. suggestions are welcome.

Amiejean, I empathize with your loss of all the little things collected over so many years of sewing.  Try not to look back, focus on the future and all the lovely things you will create again. 

I bought myself a Janome Mastercraft 11000, the only thing it doesn't do is shop for fabric.  Like you, I started to sew over 40 years ago on my mother's machine - a Singer and still have the White machine I bought when I started working, but if you haven't tried the newer computer machines you are in for a treat.  Sort of like driving in an old clunker  and then getting behind the wheel of a brand new car.  The adjustments are done for you, select a different function or stitch and the machine adjusts itself automatically.  My particular pleasure is creating art quilts.  While I still enjoy hand quilting, the new machine allows me to embellish the finished product by adding depth and dimension with free motion quilting. 

Sewing those long drapery seams is much faster as I can run the machine with a start button, ignoring the foot pedal, and have both hands free to manipulate the fabric and both feet on the floor.  And all those great looking decorator cushions in the stores that start at $40. a piece, all you need is the fabric.  Think of the terrific presents you can make for the folks in your life.  These new computerized machines are expensive, and there is a learning curve, especially if you don't have any computer skills but find a store with good after sales service and free lessons.  Be prepared for sticker shock though, I live in Canada and I paid $6000 for my machine this year.  Gulp !!  But I'm retired, I don't think I'll be buying another sewing machine in this lifetime so I expect to have this one for hopefully another 40 years.  Pfaff, Bernina, Janome and Brother are all quality names.  One thing you might do is check with a local dealer to see if a customer has brought back one of those new machines to them. There's also Craigslist or your local Buy and sell etc.  Some people buy or have had the machine bought for them and find that they have to do a bit of work to learn how to use it, and just give up.  This isn't rocket science and when you realize that a good machine takes care of the finicky little details like bobbin tension and stitch length and it won't "die" if you make a mistake, you'll relax and have fun.  There are probably some deals to be had.  Go for the best you can afford and enjoy creating your new home.

Thanks for all of the advice. With my research and your wonderful input, I found out that some of the Babylocks are made by Brother. I'm now weighing the differences between the Brother 1250 which a brand new update of the 1200 (difference is that it added Disney Designs) and the Janome MC9700. One of the big differences is that the website specs show Janome with a 25 yr warranty on mechanical plus  5 yrs electronic and 1 year labor. Whereas, the Brother just shows 25 years mechanical.

Sounds as if you are getting close to a decision.   I guess another thing to consider, if you haven't already, is choice of dealer.  One who does service promptly at a reasonable price is a real asset!  Availability for questions is nice too as are free lessons on your new machine.