I've got the Jet 16" and I it works just fine for me. When I was looking I focused mainly on 14" saws. I wanted more power for resawing than most of the 14" saws have. Delta has a 1 1/2 HP 14" saw but is was more money than the Jet 16". I'd also read of problems related to the riser block on the 14" saws. I knew I wasn't too thrilled with that business.
I don't have 220V in the shop so the Jet was a good choice for me. I think if the 220 had been available I would have gone for a Mini Max
16". That's a bit more money than your $1000 but I think it might be slightly nicer.
Still, I have no regrets and when I do get to have a shop with 220V, I'll just rewire the motor I've got.