I'm a lover of Essential threads by Connecting threads too! 100% Egyptian long staple cotton, low lint and the price can't be beat. I love the sheen to the thread and the colors too.
I've used this thread successfully for piecing and quilting now for over 4 or 5 yrs.
My preference for the bobbin is Superior Bottom Line...a bit pricey looking but it lasts so long that it actually is a good price and great quality.
There are lots of great threads out there but having a fixed income makes me very frugal.
warm quilt hugs, sue