I have the Brother 1500 and FMQ using Organ size 16. Works wonderful. Previous to this Brother (which I got from a relative, had little use before she died of cancer) I was FMQ on a Singer 201 which was awesome but no needle down.
I do not use the needle threader, and the bobbin on Brother is the larger size (size L??? Holds more than class 15) I have no issues with bobbin insertion or quantity of thread. Just wind 10 bobbins before beginning your quilt and that lasts all day into the evening. Of course the $20,000 machine will have more features-- the Brother 1500 (or Janome or Juki) costs much less so I am happy!