The idea that $3k is not sufficient for separates seems in error to me. Especially if one is looking at used.
Assume $1500 for preamp and another $1500 for amp.
Names popping up used on US AudioMart for under 1500:
PREAMP
Vincent
Audio Research
Freya+
Primaluna
Conrad Johnson
Rogue
Black Ice
Apt
Bryson
Threshold
Jeff Rowland
AMPS
Jolida
Quicksilver
Rogue
Primaluna
Vincent
Decware
Conrad Johnson
Audio Research
Aric Audio
VTL
Denis Had
I think it’s obvious that $3k is plenty.