1. I vary setting needle up and needle down ---- depending on what I am doing. The important thing is, you can easily change to your preference.
2. To clarify ---- the "manual" setting (aka not using stitch regulator) is the only setting that continues to stitch when I am not moving the machine. Both the "manual" and "stitch regulator" modes can be adjusted for speed. Again, a must have option (IMHO).
3. One thing that you did not mention ... and one that I love on my LA..... is the ability of a "tie off" feature. Once I bring up my bobbin thread, I can push 1 button and it will take 3 stitches in place which secures the threads. I have come to LOVE this feature. This is particularly handy when quilting demands frequent starts and stops.
Hope this helps.
Good luck!