Looking at other sewing machines

I have a singer 20U33. It's a fine machine for lots of things. It's certainly more capable than domestic machines, and can sew probably any lightweight gear project you have in mind. There are some shortcomings compared to stright stitch industrial, like not being able to use all sorts of handy binders, folders, and tape attaching attachments that are available for those. There's also a bit less space between the needle and the body of the machine than with many plain machines. Zig Zag is handy, and it'll do button holes.

The Japanese made Singers are much nicer than the clones. I'm told by my sewing machine mechanic that the current production are junk.

Oh, one other thing: the built in spool holders won't hold an 8 or 16 oz industrial cone, you'd need to fit a separate stand for those, should you decide to use them.

Here's a couple that I'm looking at, mainly because the price is right, can anyone tell me if these are better than my Singer 401A

http://www.ebay.com/itm/330739929814?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

http://www.ebay.com/itm/330740888068?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

I like the singer for the extra space under the foot.

This is the one I really want though.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/110887437698?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

IMHO your 401a is as good as any of the machines your are looking at. Be forwarned sellers saying that the machines you are looking at as industrial or commercial is incorrect. The pfaff would have an advantage for repair work as it is a free arm machine. The consew walking foot industrial machines are far superior as far as heavy sewing goes, but you'll have to shell out some serious $$$$.