Pioneer PLX 1000 ancestry

None of the professional DJs never use those turntables, exept for the Pioneer and Pioneer team (who got paid for it). Stanton and Audio-Technica made for the amateurs as the cheap alternative to the classic Technics SL1200mkII which is still available on the used marked for $500 (and can be purchased fully refurbished for a bit higher price). Each clubs equipped with Technics turntables for ages.

So please do not fool yourself that Stanton or Audio-Technics or any cheap clone of the legend are the DJ turntables. It’s a turntable for "wanna be a dj", but not for the professionals and there is a reason for it.

For $1600 there is NO better alternative than brand new (or used) Technics SL1200GR now if you want all in one (Direct Drive with tonearm etc). Do not waste your money on cheap toys. Technics is killing it!!!

None of the professional DJs never use those turntables

So according to Chakster, all the professional DJs have used the tables mentioned in the OP.

The Pioneer PLX is hardly a cheap toy and if Chakster had handled one, he’d know that they’re actually built better than the original 1200s. Nothing but a used SL1200 comes anywhere close for $699.

One thing I haven't seen, although I really haven't been looking for it, is a comparison of the PLX1000 and the GR1200.  I am also curious where the Onkyo CP-1050 fits into the picture.  I am curious since Onkyo and Pioneer are now the same company.  Is it possible the Onkyo has all the stuff in it from the PLX1000 that appeals to domestic audio consumers without the DJ stuff?  If so, it would represent a real bargain for those who don't need DJ features.  But it seems the Onkyo may lack the plinth upgrades in the pioneer, and the 'arm may not be as good, either.  I only know what I have read about these 'tables.  I haven't heard any of them.

I have a PLX1000 in my collection of TT's. It is indeed a fine machine and unbeatable at its list price. So what if it has a pitch slider! I don't use it! SQ is at least as good as my vintage SL1200. How about all those cell phones made in China! I'm using one right now! The Chinese can make anything to the specs desired!

The only thing the PLX1000 lacks is a four-figure price tag for snob appeal!