I was looking for a new machine but most of the newer ones I tested were lightweight & flimsy. I came across this Janome Memory Craft MC5200 which debuted in about 2010. I was delighted to find a new one through Hobby Sew for half the original Price. It's a heavy machine weighing 11kg. I have been Sewing garments, home Dec & the odd bag. It's a great machine to use, very smooth and a perfect stitch.

I love the different straight stitches you can choose, I like the recommendations for needle thread tension and foot pressure and presser feet to use. I like the speed control slider. I haven't had it a long time, but I am really looking forward to putting it through its paces. It has so many functions, I really don't think I will get to use them all, but it is nice to know that I may.

Memory Craft 5200 | Computerised Sewing Machine

Hobbysew is selling them for $799. They are a well built machine and best value for money at the moment.
The stylishly designed Janome Memory Craft MC5200 provides excellent versatility, including a convertible needle plate. With an abundance of unsurpassed features and handy stitch designs, it will ensure that your creative potential is fully realised. With the MC5200 you can bring your sewing ideas to life.

i have an old janome that never missed a beat it's 28 years old love my new 5200 especially needle up down automatic reverse speed on straight stitch variety of patterns speed control is fabulous makes it much easier to quilt because i can guide it so well could'nt quilt very well with my old janome but the 5200 is brilliant only thing is it won't start a seam if there is more than one thickness frustrating!! maybe someone can help with that?
almost everything
won't feed properly

I am only a novice, but this machine has increased by accuracy and ability in a very short period. Have only just touched on some of it's many functions (will probably not use all of them!!). To take to classes, it is not too heavy and with the hard cover will travel well. For the cost, I believe this machine to be an excellent purchase.
I purchased this machine not quite two weeks ago and so far I am very happy with it's operation. The instruction manual is very clear (which is a nice change) and in conjunction with the visual display it is very easy to understand the different functions.
The stop/start button is grating/sticking a little and it is very easy to 'overrun'.Will probably revert to using the foot to have better control.