I purchased the 440QE last year at a quilt show.  I already owned a Bernina but wanted to upgrade to a machine that better suited my quilting needs.  I tried the 440QE for several months before my purchase and local quilt store only sells the Bernina...(Thank God)  I too wish their was a warning light/sound when the bobbin is getting low.  However, I do hear a slight noise just prior to it running out which is helpful but you have to really pay attention and not be listening to your ipod.  The stitches are great and the cleaning is easy.  Also, I found the BSR to be a bit challenging at first,...