Some modern Aeolian player pianos can be a good choice for certain
people in certain situations.  Always get one of these checked out by
a player piano technician before buying it.  If they only play well on
a high volume there is a simple solution: tack a heavy moving blanket
to the back of the piano and leave the volume higher.

It is possible to get a vintage player piano in decent shape for $1500.
I recommend vintage player pianos over modern Aeolians

Here is the best way I know to get a good deal on a vintage player
piano.  Call all player technicians in your area and ask if anyone has
called selling a vintage well-restored quality make of instrument.
Ideally this player was restored less than 15 years ago.

I found for a member of my AMICA chapter a player piano, completely
restored 10 years ago, for $2000 including rolls.  The pay off for me
was the moving, tuning, minor repairs and maintenance work.

Bill Maguire