I don't have experience with other brands, but I highly recommend you look into a used Audience AR6. They are great bargains on the used market, IMO. I'm sure you won't be able to pick up an AR6t (teflon) within your price range, but even the standard ones are very, very good units. Plus, Audience has first rate customer service and upgrade paths if you so desire.
Power conditioners under $1000?
Decware vs AQ Niagra vs Furman Elite vs older generation PS Audio Re-generators - has anyone done a/b comparisons they care to share? Anything missing form the list?