2k budget for Amp

Would you mind a powerful (+250wpc), great sounding, U.S.-built, well-built, trouble free amp from a well-established company which has terrific customer service, one whose owner often answers the phone, and runs Class A for the first 20 watts? If so, then you'll want to bump your budget by $399 for a new one or just wait and buy a used one: AVA Fet Valve Ultra 550. My guess is that most of the time, most of your music will be run within those first 20 Class A watts.

Agree Hanamike/Jaymark.With tubes as front end in Integrated you get both that's why Unison Unico and Pathos Classic Mk II are great amps.Get bass control and "bloom" and warmth from tubes.I go all tubes but I use horn speakers and do mainly jazz.But a ss power amp and tubes on top would be a good choice just not sure again what pre your using.
Chazz

Jaymark - Yes! First 20 are class A. Perhaps that's why it sounds so terrific (smooth). First 10 are Class A in the 350, which is why I recommend the 550. Maybe don't need 250+ watts, but 20 Class A watts are well appreciated.