Jmcrow

Helen,
I haven't been looking too hard until just last few months. I have only begin making quilt tops 3 1/2 years ago. Saw my first long arm machine when I picked up my first quilt from the quilter. I was memorized. I knew I wanted one. Didn't know where to begin. I saw a Gammill at the first quilt fest 3 yrs ago. It was the biggest, fanciest thing. The lady asked if I quilter. When she saw my curiosity she told me if I wanted to quilt I needed that one. 32,000! I was so shocked I decided I was going to learn to quilt on a home machine. I got a Janome 3160QDC, as I didn't want computer. Love it. Saw a Lennie at the following year show. Loved it but didn't pull the trigger. Looked at HQ. I didnt think Gammill an option. I was told by other companies that Gammill is a great company but you are paying for a name, not the quality. When I read reviews, everybody says their product is the greatest. No one has any comments about what they don't like. Which makes it confusing. After all, if they were all so great, why would there be so many used ones??
I have been told a stitch length regulator is a must. I would like to do pantos. That is where the market is here. I want to do front work on my own quilts. (I have close to 20 waiting to be quilted).
I didn't even know one can do ruler work on a LA or domestic until last week. Lol
How long will a LA last? Should I avoid early to mid 90's? You mention hydraulic lift. I think that is one thing that intrigues me about A1. I cannot find any personal reviews on them.
If you were to buy a new one, would you stay with Gammill? Would you but Vision 2.0? What size is you harp? Is get the biggest frame and machine you can fit in your space really true?