I have owned and enjoyed Luxman and Accuphase products. Those two brands were cited earlier in this thread. Both of those brands are wonderful sounding, very well built, and both have excellent driving capabilities. I currently own Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) and use one of their tube preamps and one of their SS power amps. Their design has zero global feedback and it does make a difference. The ever so important power supplies are phenomenal. The sound quality is excellent in both staging and imaging, providing a wonderful 3-D experience, and the driving capability is stupendous. Especially in the bass region, it is very impactful. Yet, I still find the upper mid-range and high frequencies to be very pleasant and smooth. My speakers are 88 db efficient. Everyone has their preference, of course. I'm just offering my experience with these products and my opinion. If you can audition BAT products I think you will be very pleased. The VK 255SE power amp retails for $9K so it is right in your budget range. And I may add, it is exceptionally well built. Their website is full of information and very good graphics. All US engineering and manufacturing.
Hope this helps. Do enjoy your new gear, whatever you land on with your final decision.
Hope this helps. Do enjoy your new gear, whatever you land on with your final decision.