Wow!! That's a bunch-o'-bucks!

I did a netsearch for the Wilcom software after the last response and the highest price I found was about $9k, I think.

Of course, there's all the "machine specific" digitizing software that runs the gamut from $2k to $6k (that I've seen so far)

What features does Wilcom have that make it worth so much more than its competitors such as Tajima's DG/ML or Happy's iPUnch, or Prodigy's IDS (and others)? Some of these are pretty pricey but all seem to have pretty much the same features which are presented differently on screen.

To date I've looked at 2 machines and have two more to see next week. Looks like one isn't interested because they never followed through with a quote as they said they would. Number two took great pains to show the machine and the software. Numbers 3 and four will be asked to digitize and stitch out an image I'll be taking with me (and taking back to number 2, as well).

Anyway, I'm about to the end of my research but would really like to see some straight-forward comparisons.

Michael

Michael,
I have been in this business since 1980. Digitizing is what I do for a living, and I use Wilcom (ES65 V9). I have had different software brands over the years and spent a very long time looking at a lot of different software packages to find one I wouldn't "outgrow". I have never been sorry for one minute. Yes, it was pricey; BUT IT WORKS! If I can dream it up, this software can help me make it come to life.
No matter what system you buy, you will have to spend a lot of time using it to become a proficient digitizer. Automatic digitizing is not what it's said to be. Some of the "pros" spent time with a machine first, then learned to edit, then just naturally went on to digitizing. There are really good digitizers and there are some really bad ones too. Just be patient with yourself while you are learning. ;)
Good luck,
Shari
Arizona

Hi, Shari,

Based on my research and what I've been told 3rd hand, everything you say is true.

I went straight to the Wilcom website before my last post, took time to view the video presentations and read what was there. I really don't see what it is that Wilcom software does (or doesn't do) that makes it worth even 4, 5, even 6 times what other brands of digitizing software cost. Perhaps some day I'll be able to take a look for myself, but until then I'll be using something considerably less expensive and, if/when problems arise make use of professionals, like you, that do know what Wilcom provides. If you provide your services via the internet drop me a line with all your contact information and I'll start my list of digitizers with you.

The decision whether or not to buy will be made by the end of next week.

Keep smilin',

Michael

Michael,
Be sure and download the free TrueSizer program at the Wilcom site. That way if your digitizer does a design for you in the emb format, you can resize it keeping the stitch integrity (within reason), view it in true view, change thread colors on screen, etc.
Good luck on your added venture. Embroidery is a very exciting medium to work with.
Shari
Arizona

Michael
from what I've been told Wilcom write alot of the 'Machine Specific' software, the frontend has just been changed to Manufacturers Specs.
Barudan Punchant Software is Rebadged Wilcom. Janome Digitizer 10000 Home embroidery Software was written by Wilcom. Most software have different levels and 'Options' that can be purchased seperately. The higher the level, the more expensive. Cheap software may have the options, but the stitch quality may not be as good, and ultimately cost more in production with increased thread breaks and poor stitch registration.
With Wilcom (and I'm sure the other big ones) you can start ofF with the entry level, and upgrade later to the next level when you are comfortable. All you will pay for the upgrade will be the difference in price between the two levels. ie if you have level A and it cost you $2000, and level B costs $3000.00, for you to upgade to level B will cost $1000. There is no time frame on this either. You could upgade two years later, and it will only cost what the difference is at the time. (At least thats how it works here in Australia, and I'm sure thats how it would work elsewhere)

John