Seeing GingerK;s comment about having her machine adjusted and not being fully satisfied, made me think of something.
Have any of you had your machines set up for specific threads?
Berninas are always set to use Mettler thread ... not just at the factory, but when you have it in for any servicing. This may be the same for other machine brands too.
So, if you regularly use a different thread ask for your machine to be set for Aurifil (as in my case ... whatever your main thread brand is) which should then minimize your need to adjust tension for regular stitching.
Likewise, if you have a machine dedicated to FMQ and straight line quilting, have it set by the machine tech specifically for that and with your most-used thread.
These were things I never knew ... til my machine was in for a servicing and via a side-conversation with the shop owner, I learned about it. Yes, we then spoke with the tech and mad the change. Now to remember to mention it each time mine goes for service.