I can easily make the clutch judder (which makes the whole car shake) with improper clutch engagement. I can also make the flywheel chatter pretty loud with improper action. All OEM, mind you.
With proper clutch engagement I can start the car smoothly anywhere from zero to 2500 RPMs. I can engage the clutch properly at higher RPMs as well, but I wouldn't call it a smooth start - more like a launch
Btw, I had owned just one MT before the Z (99' Explorer Sport). It was a completely different experience, but it didn't take me more than a few weeks (not even DD) to figure out what the Z wants from me.