I use vintage machines and I use good old Dual Duty just fine, top and bottom for my piecing.
For my friend's long arm, we've been happy with the Superior pre-wound bobbins which are a much lighter weight. Also really like the King Tut thread on top.
My friend is giving me her Bernina (I still haven't booked the flight yet, should meet up with her in November) and says it is rather fussy about what thread it uses. She's told me but I still haven't committed it to memory yet.