I have been counseled that a cheap embroidery only machine will annoy you in time, and you will use it a lot more than you expect, as we all know well. Free and cheap designs are widely available all over the web. A good combo machine (both my machines were good, bought used), according to Consumer Reports review three years ago, does the regular sewing tasks much better than a sewing-only machine, so it is not going to sit, no matter what. I can certainly sympathize with the economy, but it is better to wait and buy a better used machine than to spend maybe half that on a machine you come to hate and don't use. If you check your local sewing store (not a Joann, that has a sub contract with Viking for their larger stores), they usually have machines from people who have traded up just like buying a used car from a new car dealers trades. They often have all different brands, because they take anything in trade, and I have seen some incredible bargains in combo machines from Janome, Elna, as well as Babylock and Brother - at a time when I wasn't buying. Take your time about it, even if you have the bug, and check back often. You can get some real gems from trades.

I have had a Topaz 20 for a year and a half. The 4D came with my machine and had a dongle that came with it. I enjoy my machine. The only problem I have had is with the tension. Since having problems, i have done some research and it seems to be a problem with this particular machine. I suggest you go back to the dealer and talk to them. You spent too much money not to get help with this! If you take your machine in, your dealer might help get it set up. Good luck.

I bought the Brother 270D and I love it. If you've never used an embroidery machine, then I don't think you will be limited by the hoop size because there is so much to explore and so much to learn. And it's fine for just regular sewing, too. I'm sure it's no match for the better machines in some way or other, but it's fine for a beginner. If you haven't bought or used a new electronic machine you are in for a pleasant surprise (at least I was). Auto threading amazes me and the stitches and designs are really cool. You can download free designs on the internet, but you will need to get a card reader and a card (about $50-75 on Ebay) to be able to use them in the 270D.

I think one of the key things to consider is "follow up service". My sister-in-law has a BabyLock Elegante (sew/embroidery) machine & she got 3 years of annual check ups/servicing. The shop has been available by phone for questions/concerns/problems, and it is a LOCAL well established business. They've given her quick service thus far. Now I have a friend who within the last year purchased a Pfaff embroidery machine. She has had some sort of problem/issue & took the machine in for service. While it is a local shop, the husband of the owner of the shop is the "service tech" & he has another regular full time job. Well, he has the machine "apart", has had the machine in the shop for over 3 weeks, & as far as I know, still hasn't diagnosed the problem. 3 weeks is too long, imo.... and with an unknown end point, who knows how long this basically "new" machine will be out of commission? Both of the examples are pricey... $7000 or so... we're not talking about cheap machines. They are quite complex, computerized devices. Not everyone can service them. Also when/if you go to buy.... negotiate for "extras"... like thread, programs, etc. These things add a lot to your overall costs to owning & operating an embroidery machine. Availability of classes is important, too. Some shops have "embroidery clubs". I think that in all likelihood that most any machine today will be fairly comparable & will "fill the bill" especially if you're new to machine embroidery. But the big difference is "Service after the sale"..... check that out carefully, preferably from other customers.