Rogue Model 88, if you can use a "mere" 30 wpc. It DOES sound like more power than that, and is just really nice. I consider myself pretty good verbally, but it's hard to describe the sonic signature of this amp in triode mode, other than "really nice". It's official distortion specs are very low, to boot. In my smaller room, it will drive 85 dB sensitive mini-monitors to 90 dB peaks briefly, at a distance of 6 1/2 feet. I also have a Krell KAV-250a (500 wpc into 4 ohms), which I don't plan to sell, and it is nice to have both to choose from. I paid $2050 for it used, and $949 for the Rogue, new. I admit the Rogue is the better value by far (especially getting it below mSRP like that), but if you need more power for a bigger room, and MUST buy a NEW amp for $2000 or less, then I'm sure there will be many others here who can help you.
Best new amp under $2k?
After reading a spirited review of McCormack's DNA-125 and Belles Hotrod 150A in December's Stereophile I am interested in what you think is the best in this category. The biggest attraction to this class of amp (under $2k) is the value everyone seems to talk about. You know, 80-90% of the performance of the big boys at a third of the cost. Any and all thoughts are welcome.