I am very satisfied with my set, it is the Almarro 318B integrated with Zu Omen Def. It is quite life like. It is way under your budget .. but I am not sure if more expensive means better. For the extra, you can spend on other stuff like a good turn table or CD player or DAC ...
Another set I would like to try in the future is Magnaplanar with more powerful SS amp and subwoofer. That is already suggested by Draculel. But I don't have a dedicated listening room and don't want to put those big black planel in my living room. I tested it in a hi-fi store, as said, it is very life like ... I am thrill with goosebumps when I hear the female vocal, it seems she is right in front of me ... I still remember that sound ... I don't think I can get that kind of sound from cone speakers ...
Another set I would like to try in the future is Magnaplanar with more powerful SS amp and subwoofer. That is already suggested by Draculel. But I don't have a dedicated listening room and don't want to put those big black planel in my living room. I tested it in a hi-fi store, as said, it is very life like ... I am thrill with goosebumps when I hear the female vocal, it seems she is right in front of me ... I still remember that sound ... I don't think I can get that kind of sound from cone speakers ...