I have the Brother SE400 which is a combo embroidery/sewing. This machine is great! It does have a foot pedal, but also a start button on the panel. I never use the pedal. The speed control is right in front. Feed dogs can be raised or lowered by reaching right through the machine and sliding it. It has an automatic threader and cutter.
I bought it from Amazon for about $359.00. Right now it's on sale for $304.00
http://www.amazon.com/Brother-SE400-.../dp/B003AVMZA4