A used Parasound A21+ and a new Topping pre90 ($600) will get you to $3K. It is a very good combo. I have my A21+ for sale but I think I will trade it in to a dealer on Wednesday (USAudiomart). There are even cheaper A21+ on sale on that site.
The Topping pre90 does not work with all amps but does work great with the A21+ and Benchmark AHB2. Stereophile will review the pre90 in February, which is a bit shocking for such a low-cost item. I use the pre90 with a pair of AHB2's. It is an excellent system if you like neutrality. The A21+ is much warmer and an excellent amp for the price.