After a lengthy period sewing on the dining room table I went back to my main machine upstairs, which got a bit huffy with some fine lining fabric (a buying mistake on my part), moved to the other machine and found that I needed the manual as I had got the bobbin stuck causing a jam. It made me sit and think though, what would be the ultimate (for me) machine that I would just use for everything, with no need for another other than for a spare.
1) The body, speed and the muscle of my Mega Quilter (like the Janome1600P) - not fussed about looks
2) Must have IDT
3) A selection of buttonholes (automatic)
4) Nice variety of stitches and 20 would do for me
5) Self adjusting tension (which No 1 seems to have)
6) At least 37 needle positions (just in case) what I have already
7) Stitches both wide and long
Good lighting on it
9) Ability to stuff anything under the foot
10) Tie off facility
11) Needle up/down
12) Twin needle, never used it but I might
13) Good visual display, not fussed about colour
14) Plenty of room right of the needle - 10 inches would be good
15) A needle threader that was idiot proof if your sight was dodgy
16) Not bothered about weight, I'd never want to move it
17) Good range of feet so you never needed to buy any more
I think that's it. I am sure everybody has there own views. I can wish.
PS That item 8 has automatically put the smiley on, even when deleted and done again!