Do you have a separate sewing machine, or are you embroidering only. I have had a 4-needle for 6 or 7 years now (I think, time seems to fly) and love it, but I could not be without a sewing machine!
I'd take my dealer's advice - after 20 years you know if he is trustworthy - he knows the state of the machines, especially if they were regularly serviced. And he would be able to show you the machine in action.

Good luck!

lildoll2, I would not be in haste. I have an Ellageo (Babylock) that the hand wheel was so tight I could hardly turn--tho when stitching it spun easily. My dealer service man told me it needed new lower shaft gear but Brother no longer had parts available. I panicked--loved that machine better than 4 others! I searched and searched until I found part in warehouse in La. Not expensive--$70. I waited for it to die, which he said "soon". That was 2 yrs ago..still emb'ing with gusto. Funny..he said the shaft gear is the first to go! Maybe yours will keep stitching past that year. My fingers and toes crossed for you!

I have a 10 needle Baby lock and I am in my 60's I find babylocks easy to operate and user friendly. I think you would enjoy it very much...
You would have to get a sewing machine though if you plan on sewing... Good luck!!

I had a Babylock 6 needle for years and found it very easy to use. The threading looks intimidating but it is not. It is quite easy to follow the guides. Much of the 6 needle will look familiar to you because it is similar to the Ellegante And I started on an Ellegante too. . My advice is to spend a little time with your dealer/tech man and get comfy threading and using the machine in the shop. They can help guide you step by step. I know you are going to find it easier to use than you think. I'm not tech savvy at all and I was happily threading and stitching within 30 minutes and that included the time of instruction. Why did I give up my 6 needle that I loved? I stepped up to a 10 needle. So trust your service man and try the 6 needle. I think you will be very surprised at how well you will do. And stitching bags will be a breeze too. Let us know what you decide.

Doris, you can learn a 6 needle machine. I am 73, and have a 15 needle machine. I was intimidated by it at first; so scare of it, actually!! LOL But, when I relaxed, read and reread instructions to finally stitching out a design, I was delighted. You will find stitching more colors without changing threads to be a delightful thrill! I was told a mother board on a machine is the most expensive part, so a trade in may be a good idea.
Best wishes on finding a great deal!! Keep on stitching!! Hugs, Angel