I have a designer se- the pressure foot does go down when I step on the foot control- and raises when I step off the foot. has the needle down feature, is a great machine. as for (is it worth it?) that is up to you- you could call a local shop/dealer & ask if they have any used ones-what they cost (many do have used machines- because people trade theirs in when upgrading) I would insist on a test drive before spending that kind of money- and also call a local dealer & ask if you can take an (owner's class) to learn how to use all the features and take care of your machine.