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

I support Halcro’s enthusiasm for JVC/Victor DD tables. On his enthusiasm I decided to try a QL-Y5. I was able to pick up a "junk" QL-Y5 sans-arm for practically nothing here in Tokyo and then custom mounted a MicroSeiki MA-505 arm. Yes I loose the JVC arm automation, but the MA-505 is an excellent vintage arm. I am beyond pleased with the choice and it is definitely the best table combo I have ever owned (Rega P3, Systemdek IIX/900 RB300) and sounds comparable to some really nice setups I’ve heard elsewhere.
The QL-Y5 is the more price-down version of the QL-Y7 with a slightly lighter platter and plinth and less automation. One thing I like about the 1980s Y5/Y7 is that the circuit board is simpler with more integrated circuits than the 1970’s TT71/TT81 which are massive complex boards. It seems that there many broken TT71/TT81 out there but the Y5/Y7 generation seems to have less troubles.
https://audio-heritage.jp/VICTOR/player/ql-y5.html
https://audio-heritage.jp/VICTOR/player/ql-y7.html
I think both of these 1980s JVC/Victor tables are excellent "hidden gems"
Some others Victor models which I’ve heard people love
https://audio-heritage.jp/VICTOR/player/ql-a75.html
https://audio-heritage.jp/VICTOR/player/ql-a95.html
https://audio-heritage.jp/VICTOR/player/ql-y77f.html

the circuit board is simpler with more integrated circuits than the 1970’s TT71

naaaah ...impossible, I don't see in the TT71 a complicated board, just a messy wiring. :)

https://i.postimg.cc/05cYb9Mt/P1010219.jpg

I can only recommend  from my personal experience:
1. Technics SL-1600 mk2
2. Technics SL-1650
3. Technics SL-J33(Linear tracking- no hassles of alignment)
4. Sansui P-L95R(Linear tracking- but I don’t know how long the autoreverse will last. Mechanically complicated). 

What about the audio technical direct drive tables.  I have one in my basement system that serves me well.  I am using a $200 at cartridge and it sounds pretty good to me.  Are these considered to be horrible turntables?  The total cost of table and cartridge was less than $500.  Good luck in your pursuit.

Kenwood KP 1100: good looking, innovative and in your price range.

chip