Now I really feel like a do do bird. Not sure what the "default" was exactly but as I read I realize that I have issues with it too. I have a Janome MC4000. Love it! When I turn on the machine, the needle does a little dance and settles itself "in the middle" position. But it is not actually the middle according several of the presser feet and to the needle threader. I find that if I move the position one to the right it is right on. But as others have said I sometimes forget to set it. It doesn't not hit the foot. If I move the needle on position to the right, I get a scant 1/4 in. I also move it when using the SID foot which is actually the edge stitcher foot.