How to make a machine choice?

I'm looking to buy a sewing machine in the hopefully-near future.

I was out looking at machines yesterday and the shop had Vikings or Pfaff. The Emerald 183 was the one I was looking at. So about $600. To go to the next machine up was $800.

I want to get something that will last, I think I want to buy from a dealer rather than a place like Jo-ann's, just because of better warranty, service, etc. (Right?)

I've been sewing for 20+ years which makes me sound old but I'm only 33. So I don't need or want a "beginner machine". I don't need a ton of "bells and whistles" but some would be fun! Especially since I've been sewing with a machine from the 60's!

Are there better machines in the $600-800 range? Opinions? Help???

I had a Bernina 1130 which is still a great machine, but I let my dd have it when I bought a Brother 8500 sewing/emb. machine which is still great after about 10 years!! And I bought a Bernina 830 Record on Ebay after writing and writing the seller to be sure it had been checked and was in great shape, too!  I love it, too. It says "Electronic" but the only thing that applies to is the foot pedal I think. Still a great machine and a favorite. My dealer checked it and said it was one of the best Bernina made. And then I have a Singer Featherweight (black one) from the 1940's, and it is still going strong.  Good Luck!! I think the classic Berninas are the best and my Brother 8500 is just as good! Gramfel

I definitely recommend buying through a dealer!  I went to my local sewing machine repair shop and talked to the owner about machines.  After comparing several (including trying them out with some of my go-to fabrics) and asking lots of questions (which ones break the most often? which one does the repair guy (or his wife) use?), I got a mid-range Riccar for about $550.  I've had it for ten years now and I love it.  I take it in for a tune up once a year and have never had any problems.

Thanks for the replies!

I just went to a shop today that sells Vikings and Baby Locks. Well, Berninas too, but they are out of my price point. If it were between Viking and Baby Lock, I'm leaning towards Viking.

I want to look at Janome and Brother and then of course, keep saving money! I have a little over $100 saved up and I plan on paying cash. So it will be a little while before I get my machine but I hope I can save quickly!