Yamaha A-S2100 or 2200 (2100 is slightly brighter but more resolving).
Both of these models get closer to replicating good tube sound than do the dozens of other SS amps I’ve owned and auditioned over the years. They achieve that “lit-from-within” midrange better than many tube-based products actually. Very unique voicing within the industry. Bass extension is also incredible—better than that of some $7K^ amplifiers.
The next best options of the above mentioned brands are Bel Canto, Ayre and Pass Labs. However, it will be difficult to find a good Ayre or Pass model within your budget, and the Bel Cantos don’t have the bass authority of the Yamahas, even the higher power models.
Hegel is about as bland and boring as SS gets. They don’t really do anything wrong per se, but are also unexceptional at everything. This is why there is never any shortage of Hegel amps on the pre-owned market.
^ It’s the same for Luxman, NAD and Marantz, nothing remarkably unique or notable, but they sound less “ballsy” than the Hegels.
Generally you want an amp that doesn’t achieve its low distortion via large amounts of open-loop feedback. That’s why Ayre and Pass sound the way they do. The Yamahas are the only amps I’m aware of that employ a high feedback scheme (a rather uncommon circlotron circuit) yet still manage the tube-like sound. You get the strong lowest octave bass of a high feedback design but don’t have to sacrifice the gorgeous mids and tonal saturation of a low feedback class A amp. They offer better “hybrid” sound than most true hybrid setups.