Suggestions for a top flight streamer/Dac around the $2000 mark?

uber,

Consider Aurender N100H used, excellent player as long as you pair it with a decent DAC, like Denafrips (they have 4 different offerings starting at $1K) all reviewed very favorably. 
Look into Innuos ZENmini + LPSU also. 

Micromega Aria? ($5K new)

http://www.audioasylumtrader.com/ca/listing/DAC-Processors/MIcromega/Aria-Dream/reference-wireless-d...

Don't know much about the micromega but due research forthcoming.
Thanks!

While the Vega G1 is an excellent dac, it will not stream wirelessly(which Auralic recommends) like the Altair, so you will need another cable to connect to your network.  Auralic's support is also very good.  I was having an issue with my Altair and the owner of the company got involved personally and fixed it at no charge, even though it was over a year past its warranty.  You have several good choices(hard to make) from all the mentioned recommendations.

@uberwaltz  Your reasons for moving on from the Ayre EX8 to the BAT?  You have been so positive in your reports / posts on the Ayre unit.