The S7 sits near the top of the Skyline series of machines with the S9 being at the top followed by the S7, S6, S5, and S3. They are considered Janome's top value line as they include a large number of features and accessories at their respective price points. The S9 is the only sewing/embroidery combination Skyline; thus, the S7 is like the S9 but w/out embroidery. (There are a few other minor differences such as overall stitch count.) I also shopped for the S5 and found some relatively good prices but considering the S7 has many of the features of the Memory Craft 9450 (a more expensive model, near the top of Janome's entire lineup) but in a slightly smaller size and with a much smaller price tag, I went ahead with the S7. Features-wise, there is a considerable gap between the S7 and the S5.
As yet, I haven't done much with it but I love this thing. There are a number of conveniences that make performing certain functions so easy that you have to ask "Why haven't they designed it this way all along?" These include the afore-mentioned presser foot up/down button that can be programed to include the automatic thread-cutting mechanism, programmed to automatically hover as the needle is sunk into the material for easy pivoting, and to raise the presser foot and cut all in one action. With this button, the standard presser foot lever, and the knee lift, someone with perhaps some motor disabilities can lift their presser feet without struggle. I also like the apps features that select various settings (those that I've tried are logically chosen and make basic tasks virtually foolproof) and there is even a stitch composer and Favorite Settings feature for every stitch, memorizing settings for tension, pressure, width, length, etc. for every applicable stitch.
My favorite feature though is pretty basic: the quick-changing needle plate system. Slide off the bed extension, press a lever, and the plate pops up and you can easily switch to the other plate (straight stitch or zig-zag, whichever you need). The machine recognizes which plate is inserted and prevents zig-zag stitches from being sewn when the straight stitch plate is engaged. No more broken needles while using the straight stitch settings!
If you're looking for a mid-priced computerized machine that is full-sized but with a somewhat smaller footprint -- a machine that compares favorably to, say, the Bernina B570 in size, speed, and features -- I strongly recommend the S7. Prices have been coming down lately and the Skyline series is worth a long look and a test drive. Merry Christmas to all of you!
