So many great golden era DD tables out there, what do you recommend for $1000?

Dear Raul, thank you. I love digging around audio-heritage.jp
I'm not sure how many of these higher end 1980s Japanese TT made it out of Japan, but they were popular here and they made many variations of models. There are 3 Pioneer PL-70LII on yahoo auction japan right now but they are all expensive in the 160.000yen ($1600) range.  Like other countries the audiophiles always seem to fight over the rare top-end models while the step down models (which are often almost as good) go for much much less. 
Jessica

Raul, The PL70LII is pretty well known to be a stealth bargain, if you "study" pioneer turntables. It only lacks some of the fringe features, including the massive suspended plinth, of the Exclusive P3.  You're correct about the tonearm, too. Sometimes you see them for sale on "Hifido", the Japanese company that sells a lot of vintage stuff of all kinds, both in their real stores in Japan and by mail order. They are completely reputable, and they know how to pack and ship a turntable.  If anyone wants to look, google "Hifido English".  Unless you read Japanese.

It's one curious case where the tonearm alone (from a P3) costs much more than the same tonearm, if you purchase it along with a turntable, like the PL70LII.  In my opinion, the PL70LII with that tonearm is a screaming bargain at $1600 (price on Yahoo as quoted by Jessica above).  I've seen the tonearm alone advertised for as much as $6000.

If you want the best sound, I recommend a Well Tempered Classic.  I had one for many years before getting a Well Tempered Reference.  The difference in sound between the two is minor.  The Classic completely destroyed the VPI HW-19 Junior in sound quality that I compared it to at the time.  You can find the Classic on the used market for about a grand.

the fully automatic denon dlp-47l is a masterpeice of engineering and a joy to behold. I have one, along with a pioneer pl-518, restored, that has auto-return. both of the dd tables are built like tanks and have never had any issues. good luck. ps- have used both mm and mc cart on both. pps- my denon may become available soon as I try out the new technics pl-1500c.