Ila,
it sounds like it's got the typical whine for these machines. The drop of 30wt. will help quiet that down. For the cords and controller, you can buy the separate cords for the plug and controller, or you can buy the single unit like your Featherweight uses. The 404 will run either way. When I want to use my 221, 201, 301, or 404 I grab whatever cord/controller set I see first. A lot of people buy the electronic controllers from Sew Classic to use with their vintage machines. Myself, I like the button controllers.
Cari