Amp Advice for Newbies

Lads...

I am new to this whole scene but totally addicted. Unfortunately I am on a rather fixed budget, I just bought a house, the kids need braces etc. I was wondering if any of you had any advice on amps for newbies. Here's my system...

iPod
Scout VPI turntable w\ 9" JWM tonearm
Sony 5 Disc changer with DSP (not sure of the model)
YS Audio\Audio Experience Concerto Plus Phono Stage
Woo Audio 2 tube pre amp
Sonetic Amplifier (185 wpc into 8 ohms)
Tannoy LGM 10" Dual Concentric Speakers

I am generally happy with the sound I am getting here but the weak link is the amplifier. The Sonetic line was essentially a DJ amp manufactured by QSC in the 80's. It's definitely old tech. I have had a friends very nice PS Audio amp hooked up to my system and the difference was night and day. I would really like to spend 1000-1500. I listen to everything, ok so maybe not everything but my tastes are pretty diverse.

Thanks in advance for your insight.