I have the Janome 1600P & it isn't too picky about needles. I know the 1600DP uses a specific needle, but am not sure which one. Mine came with Organ needles & I have used them & others- mostly Schmetz (sp?). I know for FMQ I have heard to use the larger sized needles. I did find it hard to get my tension right on this machine & finally took it into the dealer for help. The tension knob will turn round & round & I got it really off somehow. I have mine at around the 4:00 mark, where they set it & it likes that setting.