Babylock sergers

I am planning to buy my first serger soon and have been doing some research.  My local fabric store in a babylock dealer and I am amazed at the babylock sergers.  I wasn't planning to spend so much money but the fact that they seem so easy to use and have so many options is making me consider spending more than I was planning (had been planning up to about $600 and buying a used one.)  Also, the dealer would give me a class on how to use it, clean it once a year, and fix it/answer questions if I have problems.  So I have a few questions:

- Are babylock sergers worth the extra money?
 - Are there brands that are comprable to babylock that are cheaper?
- I am considering the Lauren or the Eclipse - does anyone have either of these or have used them?  I would love to get some feedback.
 - Is there any website that rates or compares sergers?  I have read a few reviews of individual models online but can't find a page that compares the different brands and models.

Thanks!!

I bought my first serger for around $400.  It was so frustrating to thread that I eventually traded up for my babylock.  I have never regretted that decision.  I still smile everytime I use the babylock.

I agree!  I felt sick to my stomach handing over the cost of the Babylock, but I never regretted it...honestly I feel that I really truly use it more because it is so easy to thread and adjust. 

Now I'm saving up to get a Babylock to replace my beginner model Janome....(Not that there is anything wrong with the janome, but.....)

You can always check craigslist or the sewing store first for used ones.  I've seen nice babylocks only a few years old for the 200-500 range if you have time to wait it out.

Angel