I assumed I would have to spend at least 1600, so 1200 would make me very happy!

I know the 6500 is selling for 1200 on Ebay right now. Haven't seen any 6600 though.

Well, you have to be careful about expecting too much of a deal. Sometimes paying a little more is worth it, because they have to pay for overhead and make a profit. A good dealer will offer you a class to get you acquainted with your machine (usually at least an hr.) plus will go over the machine before they let you take it home to make sure everything is working correctly. Tell them what you plan on doing with it and they will recommend what you might wish to buy for accessories. I have a wonderful Janome dealer and wish she could be all of yours too!!!

Thanks for the advice. I am hoping to not spend more than 1600. But we'll see. I really want this machine!

I just think the $1200 price is too low, and didn't want you to get your hopes up for it.

Good luck from Pittsburgh! I hope that you get a great deal on the machine you really want. Let us know how it turns out.
Both of my sons went to IUP. Indiana is a lovely area.
Audrey :)

The dealer that is 40 minutes from me is closed for business. I did find 2 dealers each an hour away and spoke with both 6600s ordered and tell me they should arrive beginning of next. The first dealer sells them for 1599. The second dealer quoted me 1249. Both dealers told me they don't really require a yearly service overhaul. They will show me how to oil the wick.... Does that sound right? Do you get your machine serviced yearly?

Indiana is a very nice, pretty small town. My husband, I and one of our daughters went to IUP.

If you are good about vacuuming out the lint in your machine (and oiling the bobbin race, if that's something a 6600 requires), it is not necessary to get a yearly service overhaul. The new machines all have sealed motor systems that do not require regular oiling and lubrication.