hybrid solid state amps

Unison Research (Italy) also does some interesting hybrid products at and well below your budget.

For your budget you may be able to find a second hand AMR AM-77 which is a hybrid from the UK.

And if you only feel like taking a punt on a lower cost Vincent (similar to the SV-236 but not the same) you could always consider the Sheng Ya A10CS . It sounds great for the money.

The Blue Circle 200 series are great hybrid amps. The BC202 would fit in your price range. I personally own the BC206 and BC208. The designer, Gilbert Yeung, is easy to work with and will customize the units to your preferences including their costmetics.

http://www.soundstage.com/revequip/bluecircle_bc202.htm
http://www.bluecircle.com/index.php?page_id=2912

there is another hybrid to consider.

the aria wt 100, designed by mike elliot of counterpoint fame.

Aria WT100 is a good choice. I have a NP100 with the Platinum upgrade, which is supposed to be very close to the Aria WT100. I have it voiced to sound like a SET amp. a very good amp IMO....