I can repair upgrade any audio component. If I was you, try and find an old BEL power amplifier class A. They sound amazing in stock form and can be upgraded for even better sonic improvement. I would also consider a Counterpoint power amp. The SA-12 / SA-100 or any of the NPS 100s. They sound very nice with Vandersteen and can be upgraded. Both of those amps can be found cheap and with your budget can be upgraded to sound better that what you are considering.
@audiotroy - yeah they all sound different for sure. If someone is clipping an amp I would imaging they are playing very loud.
Happy Listening.