Italian has good advice if I may say so--the question, "What's the best unit for X dollars?" has so many answers that it is really not too helpful. The data you can gather by listening is the most reliable, but if reading is all you can do, it's a good idea to read around the central question, finding other answers as you do, and new questions.
Also, if you read the Digital forum as suggested (here and at Audio Asylum), you will find some good ideas hidden under titles that don't seem like what you're looking for.
And yet, all that said, I can't help starting the inevitable, confusing list of specific recommendations that may end up to be a yard or so long. Here it is: Apogee pro gear is sleeper. I have an Apogee DA-1000E and it cost around what you are willing to pay.
Also, if you read the Digital forum as suggested (here and at Audio Asylum), you will find some good ideas hidden under titles that don't seem like what you're looking for.
And yet, all that said, I can't help starting the inevitable, confusing list of specific recommendations that may end up to be a yard or so long. Here it is: Apogee pro gear is sleeper. I have an Apogee DA-1000E and it cost around what you are willing to pay.