I got the same machine in September and like someone else on here said "I love it more every day". It has all the bells and whistles that you could ask for. I love, love, love the needle up/down, thread cutter and threader and the on/off button to name a few.
I tried the foot pedal the first day I got it to make sure it worked and haven't used it again. I've gotten so used to the on/off button that I'd be lost without it.
I hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine. I have no doubt you will.
Pat