2k budget for Amp

Would you mind a powerful (+250wpc), great sounding, U.S.-built, well-built, trouble free amp from a well-established company which has terrific customer service, one whose owner often answers the phone, and runs Class A for the first 20 watts? If so, then you'll want to bump your budget by $399 for a new one or just wait and buy a used one: AVA Fet Valve Ultra 550. My guess is that most of the time, most of your music will be run within those first 20 Class A watts.

Jaymark - Yes! First 20 are class A. Perhaps that's why it sounds so terrific (smooth). First 10 are Class A in the 350, which is why I recommend the 550. Maybe don't need 250+ watts, but 20 Class A watts are well appreciated.