Does your repairman have any used ones??

Well, as I have a vintage Singer but haven't used it yet, I can't comment on using them...However, dh is working on it and I hope to try it soon...I can say I have a Brother PQ1500S, and it is amazing for quilting and piecing! It has a 9" harp, and I really like the pin-feed system, it makes piecing a dream, and also I don't have to use my walking foot, as the pin-feed holds all the layers together. It is industrial, all metal. It is only a straight stitch, though...so, if you want zig zag or any extra stitches, this won't be for you..
Good luck and enjoy your search!
Kif
PS I got mine for $599.00, includes a lot of extras

Hugs to you! I can't imagine having my beloved machine gone! Good luck in your search. Depending on what you want to spend, consider Janome!

I think what's left of my mind has turned to mush. We are going tomorrow to look at machines, but in the meantime I have been internet researching. DH wants me to have what I want/need, but I really don't want to overstretch the budget. I'm having a hard time deciding between want and need. This will be my only machine for a while, so I need a good one to do piecing. But I also need one for fmq. The decorative/zigzag stitches are good once in a while too. I am so confused. How do you ever decide?

I have 2 Baby Lock Companions and 1 Brother and 1 Singer. I would freak if any of them bit the dust. Oh my...so sorry to hear of your loss.

I hope you find a replacement without too much confusion.

did you have a moment of silence for the departed machine, [just something we do, we did it for a pair of my husband favorite work and around house shorts, he just wore them out,got pretty ugly, ]

LOL! I don't think a moment of silence was even close to what was going on in my brain. Nasty name calling was more like it.

Yes rest in peace and diffently look on ebay. I got a used Janome and it sews everything, even redid the upholstry on the boat!

You have my sympathy for the loss of your trusty friend and for the agonizing search for a new friend! Good Luck!