HELP!!!! Newbie looking for a decent 2 channel power amp in the $1,000 range

“a decent 2 channel power amp in the $1,000 range”

Dude, the options are nearly limitless. Especially when factoring in new and or used. Hafler, Acurus, Aragon, Van Alstine are but a few brands that provide rock solid performance for <1k. Musical Concepts rebuilds various brands and also has their own designs. You have many, many options. Good luck in your search! 

As previously mentioned above, Schiit, Odyssey and Parasound. Although personally I have zero experience with Parasound amps and cannot vouch for their prowess. 

Might consider a PS Audio S300 (class D).  You can pick those up for ~$1k used.    And +1 on The Rogue Suggestion and Parasound.

No preamp, just direct from a DAC?

I second your aversion to Emotiva. I tried one of their products and found it bright and just not what I would call hi-fi.

Van Alstine Vision SET 120 Power Amplifier, $1,199.00.
https://avahifi.com/collections/power-amplifiers/products/vision-set-120-power-amplifier
Have not heard it. But circling back to preamps, his Transcendence RB10 preamp is terrific - both musical and accurate.

Kept waiting for pre mention as well.

Some good stuff above.

LSA New-Chat with Walter. He loves to deal.

Van Alstine. More $ but next level for sure. Be respectful.

Parasound. Any JC gear may be your best bet. Talk to Phil.

Don't buy anything over 5 years old.