I don't think you have to stick with a particular brand, unless it's an older Singer. I've heard that the Singer needles are longer. I use Organ needles, and I use a 12 or 14 for piecing, and a 16 or 18 for quilting. An 80/12 is the same as a 12. You DON'T want to use a ball point or knit needle - they're hard on woven fabrics and make your machine work harder. I usually use a Top Stitch for piecing.
Superior Threads has an EXCELLENT page full of information on needles.
http://www.superiorthreads.com/educa...e-right-needle