It could be the density of the quilting design, but I'd bet it has more to do with the batting.
I happen to like very dense quilting - doesn't have to be micro-stippling, but I like the quilt covered.
I've seen quilts done with 100% poly (not Thermore) - and ALL you could see was the quilting.
Especially if it wasn't done with very tight, dense quilting.
I'm not a fan of that look.
I know some LAQ's do prefer the poly.
The same quilting done with a cotton or 80/20 batting (or wool) allows both the piecing design and quilting to shine without one overpowering or dominating.
JMHO. ;-)
eta: I'm not a LAQ.