QuiltingNurse

I currently have a Janome 6600 machine. Had it for about 1 1/2 years, but due to circumstances, have just over the past 6 months really gotten back into quilting. I know I've not gotten into all of the features as I'm the type who needs help/lessons with a new machine.
Just the other day, I saw the new Bernina 550QE with the BSR. Since I'm somewhat new to machine quilitng, I like the idea of having the same, consistent even stitches throughout the quilt. I've also never owned a Bernina, but all of my LQS's are Bernina dealers and class machines are Bernina's.

I been quilting for many years, and do mostly machine piecing. Don't sew clothes, etc. Even prior to buying the Janome, I thought of the Bernina, but kind of did some impulse buying. (My mother was very ill, I needed a day away, went to a quilt show, liked the dealer and bought the machine.) Problem is the dealer is not "local enough" for me.
I would really like some thoughts and suggestions on these machines.
I've also thought of possibily selling the Janome or doing a trade in for the Bernina.
Thoughts, suggestions are all very much appreciated.

blahel

Remember whichever machine you end up buying to check out the throat size of the machine because if it is too small it is a pain in the butt to maneuver the quilt around when quilting. In my opinion that is one of the most important features to consider.

Rosewood9

I have a Bernina and I really love it!

Tartan

I have the Bernina 440 QE and I love it. The 550 is supposed to be the same as the 440 but without the embroidery upgrade. They found that a lot of people were buying the 440 with the BSR but not buying the embroidery feature. I didn't get the embroidery because I didn't think I was computer savvy enough to use it. The 550 is basically the same but less expensive or so I've been told. If you have a local Bernina shop that offers classes, it really helps.
As for the difference between the 2, I don't know because I've never used the Janome. I know there are a lot who do and love it too.

Skittl1321

I have a Bernina 430, and the 550 would be awesome (I kind of wanted the BSR, but decided against it afterall), but honestly- I think you should try to use what you've got first. The machine you have is really good.

momto5

I've got a 6600 too and I can understand...the machine IS good, but has some idiosyncracies that will drive you nuts. I say go with whatever you feel the most comfortable with. Doesn't matter HOW good it is if you don't like it!

fallisme

I received a Bernina 440 for Christmas and I sold my Babylock Espire. The Bernina is best machine I have ever had. The stitching is amazing.

dunster

I have the 440 and love it. However many people love their 6600 too. Do whatever works for you.

raptureready

Berninas are great machines (so I've been told) but they don't come with all the extra feet that Janomes do and some of their feet can be quite expensive. It's something you might want to check into before you go that route.

lfstamper

I love my Bernina 200 with BSR! Good luck.