Sounds like you have received lots of good leads for machines with the stop/start. I have a Janome 1050DC and it has that and a speed regulator with a few fancy stitches. It only costs $300.00 (it's light weight and I use it to travel) and you can spend more as you move up the line and still keep the features that are necessary for you. Good luck on your research, I'm sure you can easily find one you like. My only other suggestion is to buy from a nearby supportive dealer.