Hi Karen,
No problems with the cords.
I have used several different types of threads in different price ranges and am moving to poly because it performs well.
At a recent show, I chatted with Sharon Schamber, and she gave me a lot of info on the TL--she's familiar with it. Two tips are to put weights in the carriage--I used ankle weights because I could spread them out and they're low--and to mount the micro handles behind the machine. I haven't done that yet, but she's correct in saying that mounting the micro handles in the front obscures your view of stitching.
Also, I purchased a package of her size M bobbing genies and find that I have fewer problem with tension and smoothness.
If you can afford the Ansley, I think you'll like having more quilting room and less messing with the poles.
You might be interested in this review.
http://artisanssquare.com/sg/index.php?topic=7597.5;wap2
Sharon