Used amp recommendation

I am very happy with my Audio Research VT100 MK II.  There is one on Audiogon right now for $2,000.  It's a few dollars more than you are looking to spend, but it's a lovely amplifier.  ARC provides excellent maintenance service, though shipping to Minnesota for repair is a little expensive due to the weight and size.  Still, no regrets!  My previous amp was a Balanced Audio Technology VK-55.  I easily liked this amp as much or better than my ARC VT100 MK II, but I needed more power for my relatively inefficient speakers.  (In fact, I could still use more!)  Beware, going to the tubes may be a life altering experience!  Good Luck!

VT 100 MKII great amp as well and I've heard the MKI and II but not the MKIII. The 100.2 was a solid state amp. The VT 100 MKII is a bear to re-tube and bias.  I'd still go with a 100.2 regardless of the maintenance and cost of the tubes on the VT 100. My father has a VT 50 which is a great amp as well; less power obviously but similar in sound. It's just what one prefers... again both great amps but the 100.2 will be less money, no tube cost but might be harder to find for good reason. Good luck finding a VT50 as well.

There is a Classe 15 listed here for $990. I owned that amp years ago and it was outstanding. Grab it before someone else does!

I had an Acurus that was unreliable, but then so was my cousin Shirley.

Thanks for all the great input.  Ended up going with a Macintosh MC2205.