What are you trying to sew? Sewing machines range in prices from $99-$5,000.00. I would reccomend a machine that has a good quality stich and one that will last you forever because trust me spending $99 and having to spend another $100 having to service if for not working can be frustrating. With that said, give them a test drive. Joanns Fabrics sells Vikings which are really good European quality, be forwarned they are expensive. Pfaff is also a good brand as is Bernina all European made and solid construction that will last forever. Each one of these brands makes and manufactures less expensive sort of "generic" versions of their brands. Even if you don't buy from a speacialty store go there just to give them test runs. Don't get sucked in to buying a machine with a bunch of fancy stiches if you are a hobby sewer. You will more than likely only need a straight stich and a zig zag stich. Hope this helps. Happy sewing.
By the way I own both a less expensive Brother sewing machine that I spent $129 (and then some for repairs) and a $2500 Pfaff which works likes a well oiled machine.