I have the Brother 1500 as well and it is the best machine for piecing and quilting. You get all the necessary feet with it and you can also get a felting attachment which costs extra. It is a straight stitcher only, made by Juki for Brother and is very strong. It sews through hems on denim jeans very easily. You can always use your little machine if you need zig zag.
Whatever you choose, I recommend you get a machine that has a straight stitch needle plate attachment as your stitching will be more professional for piecing and quilting.