Originally posted by jatrax K-3 is a bit dated but is a solid 'pro' level DSLR with a list of features that is a little amazing.
Well, it's an older camera now, but I'm not sure it's dated...
24 megapixels is still pretty current, and I would say the sensor can give some fantastic images... the truth is that in the last 5 or so years, not much has changed in terms of sensor technology. Which is why Pentax had to develop an "accelerator chip" to get better ISO performance.
I would argue that for someone who shoots JPEG files rather than develops RAW files, a K-70 or KP might be of interest based on developments of the JPEG engine. But the K-70 can have the aperture issue, and the KP I think is a bit above the OP's budget, so I'd say the K-3 is probably the best fit, in my humble opinion.