Deciding between 206RB-1 VS 206RB-5

[JJN]

6 hours ago, Teslabolt said:

Will I be okay sewing 3/8'' occasionally? I saw that the Thor, in the same class, has a dial on top that allows for extra room in between the needle and work. 

The dial on top changes the height of the walking foot step. If the step height is not high enough when you need to sew over a seam or strap it will push your work out of position instead of stepping over it. The same adjustment is available on a similar machine without the dial with a nut on the back side of the machine that you loosen and adjust up or down a slotted arm. The dial is handy because you can make a quick adjustment 'on the fly', the other adjustment you will want to make before you start the stitch or the project. This doesn't change the thickness of what you are sewing, just the height of the walking foot step while it is sewing.

[Pintodeluxe]

I would take the 206rb-1 without hesitation.  I've owned both these versions and while they look nearly identical, there is no comparison.  The Rb-1 makes a smooth mechanical sound like a well oiled machine.

The Rb-5 goes clackety-clack clackety-clack.  No matter how much oil you add, it sounds like it still needs oil.  Every RB-5 I've ever used sounds like that.  

I have to go in the other room to listen to nails on a chalkboard.  It's more relaxing.  

Plus, you get a speed reducer with the Rb-1.  That's worth $100-300 alone depending on what type of reducer.  

You could argue there are better deals on the the Rb-1, but I do believe it's hands down a better built machine.

[Ferg]

I have no experience with an RB-1. I wouldn't trade my RB-5 for anything. Noisy? Never heard that before. When oiled properly, it sings to me every time I use it plus it has reverse.

Ferg

[dikman]

Bear in mind that lacking a speed reducer may not necessarily be an issue, depending on what you want to sew. Plus one can always be fitted later and you can make your own if you're that way inclined.