I just got a Juki F600 and I love it! Any thickness of fabric will feed through, it's quiet and sturdy and well under your budget at $999. Right now they are selling it with extra accessories which is nice. Here's a link:
http://www.sewingmachinesplus.com/hzl-600.php
I also have a Janome 7700 and wish I'd found the Juki first! I love my 7700, but for piecing I prefer the Juki.