I really like Simaudio gear also. They are pretty expensive and I would have a hard time paying their MSRP, but I was able to pick up a 600i for well under your budget. I've compared it to integrateds from Heed, ARC, Vincent, and Peachtree and it's better than any of them. I also have a Simaudio headphone amp and it's the best I've heard after owning a number of different headphone amps.
There's always something better, and "better" is always a matter of taste (unless you're one of those ASR guys), but if you can find a pre-owned Simaudio integrated in your price range I think most people would find it very enjoyable.
There's always something better, and "better" is always a matter of taste (unless you're one of those ASR guys), but if you can find a pre-owned Simaudio integrated in your price range I think most people would find it very enjoyable.