I have a BL Symphony and I love it. It uses any thread with the correct needle for that thread. I use any type of piecing thread with no problems. Bulky seams have not sewn any different than on other machines I have sewn on. I just take it easy and adjust tension when needed. I have had my machine for 5 years at least and I bought it used. I have had no trouble with it at all. I do my own cleaning maintainence and do not use canned air, but a small vacuum attachment and soft brush. I also do not travel with it. I have heard that computer machines do best if not toted around a lot. The decorative stitches are sewn nicely and there are lots of them. I understand it does a good job with FM quilting but I have a longarm and do not use it for quilting. I also do lots of garment sewing on this machine and the buttonholes are great and it sews many types of fabric well. I will be glad to answer any other questions you might have.