Top used turntables under $500

Great buy lohanimal! I got my Rock Elite just before it was discontinued for $650 U.S., which was a ridiculous bargain. A better motor is a good idea; my VPI HW-19 Mk.2 has a Berger Lahrs motor on it, which VPI used a long time ago. So you like the acrylic platter more than the stock Townshend?

 If you can do the micro DD 40 for that budget that's a great table.  I have one that came with and MA 505 arm that by itself goes for between 5 to 800 bucks.  Much better than anything you could get new for anywhere's near that money. Also if you can get and SOTA those are also great tables. 
 Another one I'd be looking for in that budget is a technique's 1200. 

@dvdgreco

a nice Technics SL 1200 black or silver color chosen among the different Mk ....... and you will live happily; spare parts are still found.