This message was posted by oldkush on AmayaUsers.com. PLEASE DO NOT REPLY VIA EMAIL. Instead, respond to the thread on the WEBSITE by clicking here: http://www.amayausers.com/boards/ultimatebb.php?/topic/1/46.html#000002 I think it is safe to say that most Amaya users here will tell you that they are happy with their XT's. Of course if you asked members of a Barudan, SWF or Tajima group the same question about their respective machines, they also will likely give their machines a positive review too. I do not own an Amaya but joined this group because we have considered purchasing one and I wanted to learn more about the machine. So for what it is worth, for me personally the positives are: - the XT is a better machine than the original Amaya - Melco service for the most part is very good and their commitment to continually improving the Amaya certainly deserves recognition - this AmayaUsers group is very active and a big help to all Amaya owners - actual stitching speed with the Amaya is faster than any other machine out there - the Amaya's networking capabilities make for very flexible multiple head configurations [although some other machines also offer these networking features] - the smaller tubular arm can be a plus when doing things pockets, gloves, etc. - the new cap frame is an improvement over the older one and probably offers one of the larger sewing fields Now for things that I'm personally still not sold on in the Amaya [just my opinion ... so no one get mad]: - the thread auto tensioning system. I personally prefer the simpler manual system ... less thread issues, less maintenance and less things to go wrong [I think]. Of course, other will like auto tensioning. - the importance of minute presser foot height adjustments for various materials. Something that is not needed in other machines. - the Amaya seems to be a little louder than some of the other machines out there. Granted, it is stitching faster so maybe that is the reason but level of noise may be a concern to some. - the Amaya does seem to depreciate faster than some of the other brands - physical space under and around the machine when the job involves large bulky items [bags, heavy jackets, etc.] Bottom line .... we each have to find the machine that fits our own needs, a machine that we feel comfortable using and a dealer that we can count on for support. For some, that will mean the Amaya and for others, it may lead to another brand. Take your time, do your homework and good luck in finding the right machine for you. Bob =========================================================== The AmayaUsers Mailing List Website: http://www.amayausers.com Discussion Board: http://www.amayausers.com/boards Subscribe/Unsubscribe: http://www.amayausers.com/list ===========================================================