I recently got my first machine with needle down and really love it, but I've used an old Bernina for FMQ and just formed the habit of manually putting the needle down every time I stop - unless I forget.
On most machines you can give the handwheel a little boost toward you as you put the pedal down, and that will reduce the revving. If your machine is one that needs you to oil it, that might also help you get a smooth start.