No doubt Pass Labs would be great... but... I don’t know where you’ll find one in your price range. And... if you do... it’s going to be ready for refurb (cap replacements, etc.).
So... the next best alternative, which will not require refurb is the Parasound Halo A21. Superb sound in all respects, with sufficient power to drive most anything you may want to drive. And... you’ll find many of them in near new condition in the $1500-$2000 price range.
I’ve got 3 of them, as well as the JC-1’s and they are all great. I also have some great tube amps (Atmasphere M-60’s), and the A21 comes very close to the sound of all of those.
So... the next best alternative, which will not require refurb is the Parasound Halo A21. Superb sound in all respects, with sufficient power to drive most anything you may want to drive. And... you’ll find many of them in near new condition in the $1500-$2000 price range.
I’ve got 3 of them, as well as the JC-1’s and they are all great. I also have some great tube amps (Atmasphere M-60’s), and the A21 comes very close to the sound of all of those.