I do like the Aurifil thread best and so does my machine. It runs smoother than with the CC or Guttermann threads and there is much less lint. My LQS charges around $10.95 for a large spool, which lasts a long time. I've checked out the sites mentioned here, but by the time you pay their lower price and shipping (and tax, if they charge it), it comes out about the same (or more) as if I buy it locally. If I could find a great deal that didn't require me to purchase several spools to get the real discount, I'd do it; but for one or two spools at a time (not knowing what color I'll need next) I don't see that much of a savings. I understand that if you are purchasing a quantity, it would be a good amount of savings.