dilemma

If those were my only choices... IF... the I would vote for the Tajima. Much easier for me to unload a Tajima in this area than a Barudan if something happens. And the techs in this area are more familiar with Tajima than Barudan, just more of them around here. Plus I think Tajima has become the gold standard for industrial machines..... virtually Every machine out there will take a dst file... .does not go the other way around. If imitation is flattery, then many in the industry have imitated Tajima on many design and function aspects.

(sorry, but having an escape plan seems appropriate in today's economic climate, no harm in having a plan, but could be a mess if something happens, illness, flood, etc without one)

Have you seen both of them run? That might help you make up your mind. If you're not able to attend a show or visit a showroom possibly salesmen representing each brand can arrange for you to visit customers who have the machines you're considering.

Are you concerned that they won't last as well? I've had a Neo for six years and it keeps running. It's had one minor repair.