Best TT under $1k

I wouldn’t let the inclusion of a cartidge dictate your purchase. If you want a very good NIB table with warranty, the Pioneer PLX-1000 is the best value by a country mile. Order it from somewhere like Needle Doctor or Music Direct and ask them to install a cartridge like the https://www.needledoctor.com/Audio-Technica-VM540ML-Phono-Cartridge

Keep in mind that your analog system will need a phono preamp unless your receiver or integrated (or separate line stage preamp) already has one built-in. I’d go with the Mo-Fi Studio Phono at $250. This would put you a little over budget at MSR prices, but most dealers will gladly grant a 10% discount simply for asking. Tell Needle Doctor you’d like the whole package for $1K. That would yield a very respectable starter system IMO and provide a path to support should you run into any problems.

Thanks so much for all of your replies. I'm leaning toward @helomech's suggestion of the Pioneer PLX-1000 with the Audio-Technica VM540ML cartridge.

I know it's not the most important consideration (perhaps not a consideration at all for some folks), but I love the old school look of the mk1200 and the plx-1000 is its successor.

I want to make an immediate purchase and most of the VPI HW-19's available right now seem to have missing parts or need work. There also seems to be a preference for buying vintage. While I love the idea - given my current knowledge of TT's - it doesn't seem practical.

Have you read this review on the Pioneer?

https://www.stereophile.com/content/gramophone-dreams-4-page-2

I usually don't care for his reviews but that one is accurate IME, having myself compared a 1200MkII with a PLX. I personally think the latter feels more substantial in overall build. One big advantage of the PLX is detachable phono cables. Some owners have reported loose tonearm bearings on their PLX, but that's a fairly easy adjustment with some patience. If you go the route of having the dealer install your cartridge, just request they give the whole tonearm assembly a thorough inspection prior to shipment.

Good news is the KAB Acoustics tonearm damper also fits the PLX tonearm - that, aftermarket headshells, phono cables, and Isonoe feet give you a path for future upgrades:

https://www.kabusa.com/td1200.htm

https://www.turntablelab.com/products/isonoe-isolation-system-turntable-feet-4-units