If you don't like lint, try Presencia or Superior (King Tut in 40 wt). Red Rock Threads (www.redrockthreads.com) and Sew Thankful (www.sewthankful.com) both carry these brands, have very reasonable shipping, and often put thread on sale.
Yes, this thread is more expensive than Connecting Threads, C&C, and RA. Like BKressing says, using cheap thread cost her $80, and it could have been more.
Have you priced a new machine lately? YIKES!
After the sticker shock of buying my Bernina 730E two years ago, I decided to spend a bit more on thread, if it would help make keep my machine running smoothly and without a problem. I sure can't afford to buy another sewing machine right now.
(I just saw the newest BabyLock last week when I went in to buy a clear serger foot, WOW! Is it a show stopper. But I have always had champaign taste and a beer budget! LOL...)