Thanks for the replies so far!

Those FAQs are useful and I read one like them before sending the first
post. The problem is that it is still kind of hard for me or my wife, as
first time buyers, to evaluate different machines. I would also like to get
some 3rd party opinion, not just what the sales people say. Especially when
it comes to comparing old machines with new.

Following are some specific examples of machines and prices I have come
across (in Aussie $). If anyone has any 1st hand experience with any of
these (especially the old ones), it would be helpful to hear your comments
(and I understand that everyone will have different experiences and
preferences, but sometimes I'm sure there are also machines that are
commonly recognised as either classics or lemons, and it would be good to be
aware of them!)

New:
Janome 2319 @ $339
Janome 2028 @ $399
Janome 5024 @ $499
Bernina Bernette @ $295

Old:
Elna TSP @ $329
Toyota SL34000 @ $220
Bernina 730 @ $250
Janome Overlocker JL-603A @ $195
Janome Quilters Companion 4618QC @ $400
Janome SW-2018 @ $200

Any comments will be well received :-)

Craig

"cj" wrote in message
...
Hi, I'm new to this group. I know buying sewing machines is a very
personal
thing, but I'm going to ask anyhow :-)

I'm looking to buy a sewing machine for my wife. New to sewing, and only
really needed for repairs and little projects here and there, for the
forseeable near future.

One of the options is to buy a cheap new machine (like Janome 2319, 2028
or
Benina Bernette?). Another option is to buy much older tradin like Elna
TSP
for similar price and 1 year wty. Does anyone want to offer some comment
or
advice about Elna TSP vs new machine?

Either reply to the group or to me personally:
(remove you know the capitalised stuff).

Thanks in advance!

Craig.