Janome Memory Craft 6300 Professional

I recently found this beautiful, like-new machine at Goodwill.  It's the entry-level machine in Janome's Professional series, denoted by the 6### model numbers and a series of standard features common to all models in the initial release with two new and improved models released later as replacements.  

Originally, the Memory Craft Professional lineup consisted of the 6300, 6500, and 6600 as well as the 1600 high-speed semi-industrial straight stitch.  I believe this series was originally released around 2010.  These models sold very well and are still highly prized.  After a long run, these three models were discontinued and replaced by the 6650 and 6700.

The 6300 is the lower-end machine in the original series.  The significant differences between it and the 6500 -- the next-higher model -- are the LED display and controls and the number of stitches it sews.  Else, it shares the same basic great features: 1000 SPM, automatic thread-cutting, needle up/down, dedicated lock stitch button, reverse button, presser foot knee lift, pressure control, telescoping thread guides for the integrated thread stand that can accommodate cones, independent bobbin winding motor, etc.  This series is especially noted for its very reliable electronics, strong motor, and smooth operation. 

The machine is pretty much vibration-free and as much as I like having a free arm, I love sewing on a large enameled metal bed.  It's really quiet and smooth even at the fastest speeds.  My only tiny gripe is that stitch selection is made via four buttons each representing various types of stitches.  (See the picture of the stitch chart if you'd like to know how it all breaks down.)  I prefer a series of, say, 6 buttons dedicated to the types of standard stitches most sewers use and access regularly such as straight, zig-zag, blind hem, etc.  Janome's (undoubtedly cost-saving) solution requires that the user press one of the four buttons repeatedly until the desired number is reached.  If you go too far, you have to cycle through all the numbers that button controls.  Not a big deal but I prefer the 6500's more elegant design.  

 

Above is a picture of the bobbin case in the machine at purchase.  There was a deep nick in the edge resulting in the top thread getting caught as it looped through the bobbin thread.  This caused thread nests and error messages, stopping the machine.  When I buy a used machine, I never know what the prior owner(s) tried to sew and I'm mindful that the machine may need major service.  Fortunately, all this 6300 needed was a new bobbin case and it's sewing perfectly.  I was able to find a new, genuine Janome bobbin case for $19.  

Most of the presser feet and other small items were missing (although the accessories box was included, empty) so I'll buy those as needed.  The feet from my other Janomes fit this machine so no hurry.  Altogether, this was a great purchase and such a bargain.  I'll be spending some quality time with it this Winter.